Photogen Inc Blog

NEW PHOTOGEN INC BLOG!!!

2008-11-30T22:44:00.003-06:00

We've got a NEW and OH-SOOOOOOOOO-COOL new BLOG!!!!

eliesa

Karen and Mike: Engaged!

2008-11-21T13:48:00.002-06:00

Karen and Mike are an infectious couple! Karen has so much spunk and brings out the best in her hubby-to-be! For their engagements, we went back to the spot where he proposed at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis! I've done many photo sessions at this location, so it was my goal to do something entirely different. Each couple is unique and brings new life into a space, no matter how many times I have been there! My challenge: Reflection! I think these photos KICK ASS!

Congratulations to Karen and Mike on their engagement! I can not WAIT to shoot their wedding next summer! It is going to be just FABULOUS!

eliesa

A Good Photograph is Knowing Where to Stand. ~ Ansel Adams.

2008-11-18T15:15:00.000-06:00

2008-11-17T12:09:00.002-06:00

BIG things are happening here at Photogen Inc and I can not WAIT to share it with you all! I have also been shooting a TON of commercial, editorial and advertising campaigns the last few weeks. So, sorry for being a LAME-O in the blogging world as of late! I will share all of these shoots with you when the finished product is ready to go!

The mystery will be revealed SOON....For now, here's some behind-the-scene shots from our SUPER cool intern Liz from an editorial shoot that is in progress AS WE BLOG....;0)

YEAH! It's MONDAY! GET EXCITED!

eliesa

Photogen Inc Featured on Wedding Bee!

2008-11-17T12:03:00.002-06:00

Part of what I love about my job is being able to inspire people. Really, I'm lucky to have the OPPORTUNITY to do so and I'm often quite humbled when people say they are inspired by my photographs! That is SUCH a cool thing! I've received several e-mails from brides noticing one of my images on the Wedding Bee Blog! (Wedding Bee is an UBER popular blog amongst brides in the planning process!) The best part - our image was a source of inspiration!

Enjoy and check out Wedding Bee!

eliesa

Congratulations to METRO Magazine!

2008-11-13T15:46:00.002-06:00

YEAHHHHH!!!!!!!! Metro Magazine has had a VERY big day! They just launched their SUPER COOL NEW WEBSITE and announced that they are officially an AWARD WINNING magazine!!!

The awards were by Minnesota Magazine & Publications Association's annual "Excellence Awards!"

METRO took home the following awards:

BEST OVERALL DESIGN : Gold Award, February,
May & June 2008

BEST FEATURE ARTICLE : Gold Award
Bloodlines, May 2008

BEST SINGLE COVER : Silver Award, December
2007

OVERALL EXCELLENCE : Silver Award, February,
May & June 2008

BEST USE OF VISUALS/PHOTOGRAPHY: Bronze
Award, Bloodlines, May 2008

I couldn't be more ecstatic for the team at METRO! That crew has been SO much FUN to work with and they totally deserve each of these awards! CONGRATULATIONS! I'm SO happy to work with an AWARD WINNING publication!

eliesa

Test Roll!

2008-11-12T11:20:00.004-06:00

In my quest to keep film alive, along with trying out a new film lab (Richard Photo Lab), Brandon and I shot off a couple test rolls! We shot 1 with a Hasselblad and the others with a Holga. I must have must a focusing mechanism on the Holga, but regardless I think they are S-WEEEET!

Woo hoo for FILM!

eliesa

Chicago!

2008-11-10T19:31:00.002-06:00

This last weekend I headed to Chicago! We all had our reasons for going on this trip, a little work - a LOT of play - and some much needed relaxation! (And when I say relaxation I mean walking around the city until you have blisters on your feet, dancing the night away until you have blisters on your feet and shopping until you can't look at brand names anymore!) It was PERFECT!

I have been to Chicago many times before, but this is the first time that I took a few days to really experience the city and we did it up! We went to some AMAZING restaurants! Check them out - Alinea ( for the dinner of a lifetime!), Avec ( for uber yummy comfort food), Orange (for the breakfast lovers out there!) and The Signature Room on the 96th floor of the John Hancock building (for an amazing view and desert!) I think I've gained some LBS. in the past 4 days, but it was soooooooo good!

I had some goals for this past weekend. First, was to shoot entirely with my new point and shoot, the Canon G10 and not touch my 5D. I'm not going to lie, it was tough! I realllllllllly love the G10 and it was SO much fun to have a camera to whip out at the spur of the moment, but also frustrating to adapt to! I'm getting the hang of it though! You will notice that all of the following photos are in Black and White....this was also a little weird project of mine for this trip....just for FUN!

We arrived in Chicago 48 hours after all of the buzz and Obama being named the next President elect! The first stop we made was at Grant Park. There was nothing but a fenced up park and people picking up....and kicking us out! BUT we were able to grab a quick photo.....just to be cheezy and say 'we were there'....'48 hours late....' Did I mention it was RAINING?

We also met this dude. I forgot to get his name. He has been on the road for 18 months, in this CNN van, producing coverage of the election. He was super cool, but a bit jaded from all he has seen on the road....I think I would be too!

Obamarama was EVERYWHERE! They are extremely proud of their 'hometown hero'...

Alright, enough politics...here are some snapshots from Chicago...

...You can't tell what we are looking at, but it's a HOT pair of Jimmy Choos!...

Woo hoo! Yeah for mini-vacations! I feel refreshed and ready to work on the HUGE things I'm about to release to the world!

eliesa

History.

2008-11-05T08:08:00.002-06:00

Today is a new day in America. I haven't blogged about the election thus far, because I wanted to stay out of the politics, but now, when everything is said and done, I couldn't be more happy! I just woke up, haven't even stepped outside yet, but there is a certain energy that arrived once it was announced that Barack Obama will be our next President! The energy is still in the air and now is the time that Obama and his team will be able to show the country they can do!

I'm off to Chicago tomorrow and I am sooooooooooo excited! After seeing Grant Park last night, I'm super psyched to see if the buzz will still be around - and the pride from Obama's hometown!

Ladies and Gentleman - get your cameras out! This is history! Seriously, kids will be reading this in their text books and we are LIVING this!

WOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Congrats America!

eliesa

Susan and Mark: Engaged!

2008-11-03T18:28:00.003-06:00

Susan and Mark met at a party. She played hard to get and the next thing you know, they are months away from getting married! I absolutely love this couple, because they are totally goofy and have a TON of fun together! It is also very obvious how supportive they are of each-others lives as individuals, which I think is an amazing and important attribute to any relationship!

Congratulations to Susan and Mark on their engagement! I'm sooooooo excited to shoot their wedding this winter! Seriously, it is going to be sooooo cool! (I secretly want to share the details with you now, but I promise, it's worth the wait!)

eliesa

Mr. and Mrs. Carufel!

2008-11-02T17:46:00.002-06:00

This past weekend was BEAUTIFUL in Minnesota! Some might ever call it an Indian Summer, but either way it was a PERFECT day for a wedding! Katie and Damien got married at the infamous University Club in downtown St. Paul and the location couldn't have been better! It was classic, dramatic and historic - all words that describe the couples day overall!

A HUUUUGE THANK YOU to the wedding party (and mainly the girls!) for trekking all around St Paul in stilettos! Congratulations to the Carufel's on their wedding! We had SUCH a great time shooting you and wish you the best!

eliesa

Halloween and Birthdays!

2008-10-31T17:58:00.002-05:00

This week was a great week for me! First, it was my birthday, I was SUPER productive with editing and it's Halloween AND I have a super great wedding this weekend! Thank you to EVERYONE for the birthday gifts and cards! I totally felt like a rockstar - I don't think I've ever made out this good on my birthday, besides my 16th when I got a blue truck! What was my present to myself? A back massage, manicure and.....drum roll please.....the CANON G10! My first point and shoot camera EVER!

Happy Halloween!

Have a great weekend!

eliesa

Mr. and Mrs. MacFarlane!

2008-10-29T12:04:00.002-05:00

I'm convinced Abby and Ian will have good luck for the rest of their lives, because they got married during our first official snow of the year here in Minnesota! (Yes, it did SNOW!) Since we stayed mostly indoors, I took advantage of some SUPER killer window light that added some extra drama to their photos! There was also a lot of love in the room from everyone who attended this wedding!

...We stole the wedding party away for one shot outside! It was FREEEZING and WET and MUDDY but totally worth it!...

...this is how we roll...

Congratulations to Abby and Ian on their marriage! I wish them many years of happiness!

eliesa

November Metro!

2008-10-27T11:04:00.001-05:00

The November issue of Metro Magazine is about to hit stands! We have our monthly features in there...check it out!

eliesa

Sue and Bob: 30 Years!

2008-10-25T10:21:00.002-05:00

A great part about my job is getting to know my clients, meeting their families and ultimately being a huge part of their lives! This past week, Bob and Sue celebrated 30 YEARS of marriage! Woo hooo! They are the super-cool parents of Amy who will be getting married in just a few short weeks! I had a blast hanging out with these two - and let me tell you, they still have IT!

A HUGE congratulations to Bob and Sue on their anniversary - and to the many years to come!

eliesa

Mabel and Jason: Day After!

2008-10-23T15:29:00.003-05:00

We had the pleasure of hanging out with Mabel and Jason, the day after their wedding and driving down to New Orleans with them! We stopped at this AMAZING plantation along the way called 'Oak Alley'! It is truly a breathtaking place! We also got a couple shots down on Burbon Street!

Again, a special THANK YOU to Mabel and Jason for inviting us down to the south to capture their wedding day! You were unbelievable hosts and we had a fabulous time!

eliesa

Mabel and Jason: Married!

2008-10-21T14:06:00.002-05:00

Mabel and Jason have to real deal. Real Love, Real Dreams and Real Passion! I absolutely LOVED hanging out with them and meeting all of their family and friends in Louisiana! Mabel is a Guatemalan beauty and Jason is a true southern gentlemen!

...I LOVE this shot, because we did a 'surprise slideshow' at the reception and this is Mabel's reaction to our photos! Priceless!...

Congratulations to Jason and Mabel on their marriage! These to love-birds will be moving to southern California to start their new life and I wish them the absolute best!

eliesa

p.s....I HAD to share this shot! HOW COOL is this chandelier?

The Dirty South!

2008-10-20T05:04:00.002-05:00

I am so fortunate and blessed to have the job that I do. I am able to travel, meet new people, and do what I love! I also get to experience locations in this world from another perspective! When people think of Louisiana they might think of warm weather, the gulf, cajun food and the French Quarter. This trip for me opened my eyes to what much of America is dealing with. Poverty and a sense of helplessness. I had a few moments to drive around a small town in Louisiana and photograph. The feeling overall in this town was abandonment and it made me realize how very lucky we all are and to appreciate everything we have!

...Here is just some randomness...

...This is actually a cemetery - it was the only 'park-like-place' we could find! So, we dined with the dead!...

...I shot an A-MAZING wedding down here and I can not WAIT to blog about the photos! I also shot some sweeeeeet film shots with a Holga that I'm excited to share with you soon as well!...

eliesa

De-Railed

2008-10-17T15:36:00.001-05:00

Have a fabulous weekend!

eliesa

Natalie and Vince: Engaged!

2008-10-14T17:27:00.004-05:00

This last week, I traveled to Indiana to shoot Natalie and Vince's engagement session! I LOVE traveling to clients, because it is so cool to shoot in their element! These two lovebirds went to the same high school, but had no idea until after graduating that their true love was right under their nose the entire time! We went to Turkey Run State Park (which is BEAUTIFUL) and the location in which Vince proposed to Natalie!

...A little drama in the woods!...

...Ruger got in the water and LOVED it!...Puppy Jowling Anyone?...

Congratulations to Natalie and Vince on their engagement! I will be traveling back to Indiana next fall and I CAN'T WAIT!

eliesa

Indiana

2008-10-14T17:25:00.001-05:00

eliesa

I've been TAGGED!

2008-10-13T19:53:00.003-05:00

My GREAT and FABULOUS friend, Erika TAGGED ME! This is a fun little survey going around the photography community ALL around the WORLD!

4 things I did today:

1. Woke up in Indiana and answered e-mails for 1 1/2 hours ( seems to be a daily ritual now...especially on Mondays!)
2. Flew from Chicago to Minneapolis
3. Began editing an AMAZING engagement session on the plane (CAUTION: Seriously cool blog post soon to come!)
4. Watched 'Baby Mama' and I'm about to go out for Brandon's Birthday dinner at my FAVORITE restaurant, the 112 Eatery!

4 things on my to-do list:

1. Laundry and Re-Pack for Louisiana
2. Buy a Holga in the next day or so...
3. Go to Thailand, Panama, The Mountains of BC (again, I just LOVE it there!), NYC (primarily to shop), and AROUND the country to shoot with my favorite photographers!
4. Re-Do/Update my vision board!

4 of my guiltiest pleasures

1. Cheesecake and Cinnamon Rolls
2. SHOES!
3. New, Sexy, Glass (meaning Canon lenses of course!)
4. FILM!

4 random facts about me

1. I secretly LOVE country music!!! (Yes, I did just admit that to the world. My current favorite is Dierks Bentley!)
2. 'Love Actually' is my favorite movie of all time, a close 2nd is 'P.S. I Love you'
3. I have never been nervous for a photo shoot...ever.
4. I have an incredibly independent spirit! I love to just GO and DO something INSANE! (Like skydive, bungie jump, take off on random trips, Cliff Dive...which has been the scariest thing for me to date!)

Now, I get the PLEASURE of tagging 4 AMAZING photographers - CHECK THEM OUT! Chenin Boutwell, Jeffrey Lawler, RAD Studios, and The Alabama Boys (aka..A Bryan Photo!)

eliesa

Happy Birthday Brandon!

2008-10-13T19:31:00.003-05:00

It's Brandon's birthday this week! For all you B-Funk Fans out there, GIVE HIM SOME BLOG LOVE for his birthday and leave a comment!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRANDON!!!

eliesa

Tarin and Greg: 5 YEARS!!!

2008-10-10T15:11:00.003-05:00

I don't think there is a better gift than photos. I'm not just saying that because I am a photographer, but seriously, what is better than capturing a moment and having that FOREVER? Tarin and Greg have been married 5 YEARS TODAY!!!! they realized that they hadn't had any photos of themselves since their wedding and agreed that they needed to capture this time in their lives together! We had SO much fun during their session and I absolutely adore this couple!

Congratulations to Tarin and Greg on their 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!!!

eliesa

40 and Fabulous!

2008-10-10T10:39:00.003-05:00

Lisa just turned 40 and she couldn't be more happy about it! This hottie decided to treat herself to a little 'Bettie Page' inspired session, proving she can give the young guns a run for their money!

Congratulations to Lisa on looking and FEELING fabulous!

eliesa

Agnes and Chris: Engaged!

2008-10-08T13:21:00.002-05:00

Agnes and Chris are a SUPER special couple! The two met in college and will be getting married on the other side of the world in Indonesia! Agnes is originally from the country and Chris and his father flew all the way over to ask her parents for her hand in marriage! (It's customary for parents to ask permission of the bride's parents in the culture!) Now, THAT is what I'm talking about when using the phrase 'Going the Extra Mile' for a proposal!

...Meanwhile, Brandon made a new friend...

Congratulations to Agnus and Chris!

eliesa

A Little Love...

2008-10-06T13:50:00.003-05:00

First off, a HUUUGE THANK-YOU to all of my clients who were suuuuper nice and understanding this past weekend! I got hit with the plague-of-death sickness and had to cancel/reschedule many things! So, thank you all SO much!

...Proof that I'm back at it...:0)

Secondly, I wanted to share some A-MAZING letters and comments I have received from many of you over the summer! Thank you SO much for your words of encouragement and feedback! (This is not meant to toot-my-own-horn, but rather share the pure LOVE I get from all of you!)

Once again, really great work on all the m-100 shots, especially the
portraits, everyone really loves them.

-Bryan

So I'm just hang'n out in Phoenix working (the first time we've been separated since the wedding) : ( and I have my wife in Vegas literally screaming on the other end of the phone right now because she's looking at the photos!!! She loves them!!!

I'm not sure if I've told you this yet, but THANKYOUTHANKYOUTHANKYOU!!!!!!!!
When you see Brandon next, give him a big hug from us.......

Later dudette,

-Reed

Hello Eliesa,
I just wanted to take a moment to acknowledge what an AMAZING job you have done for Stacey and Mike. As a member of the wedding party and fellow bride myself, it was so nice to sit back and watch Stacey just relish every moment of her wedding experience knowing that you were there to capture every precious moment. With all of the stress of planning a wedding and the unknowns of the day, I know Stacey took such pleasure and confidence in knowing that you were her photographer - what a blessing on such an emotional day! From the few shots I have seen ALREADY posted on your blog, I know Stacey is going to be just as pleased with her wedding photos as she was with her engagement shots. They are truly beautiful and you not only captured her day, but the essence of Mike and Stacey as well. Thank you so much for making my friends so happy! You are an incredibly talented person.

Warmest regards,

-Krysta

The pictures are so great it's all I can think about.

I have never been more slammed at work but I can't stop thinking about the pics.

Kelley is so beautiful it is ridiculous.

WOO!

Nate

Dear Eliesa,

Thank you so very much for sending us the beautiful pictures you took for us, and for your sweet, thoughtful note!

We are endlessly grateful and feel incredibly lucky that we met you, such a super talented photographer to add to our memories of the engagement!

You are truly amazing and we wish you all the best. Your passion and enthusiasm for what you do will no doubt bring you continued success and an increasingly shining, bright future.

Hugs,
Candy & Leo

Hi Eliesa-
Thanks for the recent updates to the blog... have fun in Canada.

One of the great things about your blog is all of the links that you provide so that I can continue to seek out information through images and
learn more about what feels like my style of photography.

Surfing Photography blogs/websites has become my dessert at the end of the day and still... YOURS Eliesa, is my favorite. You make images
in a way that constantly leaves me wanting to see more and leaves me asking "How does she do that?" (technically speaking)

You are amazing.
Keep on, keepin' on...

Stephanie

Thank you ALL for the L.O.V.E! Happy Monday!

eliesa

Photogen Inc Featured on PRO PHOTO HUB!

2008-10-02T11:49:00.002-05:00

I'm SUPER excited to be a featured guest of the UBER COOL Photography Blog PRO PHOTO HUB!!! Pro Photo Hub is a FANTASTIC resource for photographers all over the world and offers reviews of the BEST products, Updates on SWEET workshops and interviews with the TOP people in the industry! (WHAAAA!!!! You can only imagine my excitement to be asked to be part of this AMAZING community!) CLICK HERE TO READ MY INTERVIEW!!!!

I HIGHLY encourage all photographers and fellow photo-nerds to follow the Pro Photo Hub Blog for the LATEST and GREATEST in the industry!

ROCK ON!

eliesa

Big Things Are Coming...

2008-10-01T15:19:00.000-05:00

eliesa

A Canadian Adventure: ATVing!

2008-09-30T01:43:00.003-05:00

What would a trip to Canada be without a little adventure?!?!? This time, my friends took me ATVing, which I have never done before - and I am TOTALLY hooked!

World: Meet Bruno - THE cutest puggle EVER!

This shot is THE perfect way to end this trip for me!

eliesa

Baby on Board!

2008-09-30T00:43:00.007-05:00

While in Canada, my wedding client, Roz, gave the greatest gift ever - a photo session for her friend! We totally surprised Lori by showing up to her house and being like, " Surprise!!!!! You are going to do a photo shoot.....RIGHT NOW!!!" Lori was absolutely radiant and the weather was a bit overcast that day, adding the perfect amount of drama!

Congratulations to Lori on her new bundle of joy! She only has a few weeks before she welcomes her new baby!

eliesa

Smokin'!

2008-09-29T20:49:00.003-05:00

What can I say about this bride-to-be?!?!?! Other than the fact that she is SMOKIN! Normally, couples do an engagement session before their weddings; however, Roz and Jamie have a different situation! Jamie has been away for work for almost a year now, so Roz decided to surprise her man with a mini boudoir session!

Roz and Jamie will be getting married next summer in Vancouver and I SERIOUSLY can not WAIT for their wedding - it is going to be FABULOUS!

A HUUUUGE thanks to Roz, Brock, Chris and Ray for being such fabulous hosts to me while I was in Vancouver!

eliesa

Life is RAD!

2008-09-27T08:29:00.001-05:00

While I'm in Vancouver, I had to stop by and hang out with my AMAZING friends, Ral and Danelle of RAD Studio Inc! These two are not only a ROCKIN couple, but their images are SO inspiring and SO them! Since I saw them last, they have done a major overhaul on their studio space and it looks better than ever! Check out their A-MAZING work HERE!

...Can you Say SEXY?!?!?! I LOOOOVE this couch!...

Thanks again to Ral and Danelle for being such fabulous hosts! I truly enjoy your laughter, support and love of breakfast food! ;0)

eliesa

The Metro 100: On News Stands October 1!

2008-09-26T08:24:00.003-05:00

Yeahhhhh!!!!!!! Remember a while ago, I did a post on some out-takes while shooting bad-ass portraits for Metro Magazine? Well....the issue is FINALLY about to hit news stands and I am SOOOOOO excited! I shot an 18 page spread for the Metro 100, which is the 100 BEST things about the Twin Cities! Seriously, everything from Food to Shopping to Fabulous Art and Music is featured in the list, so be sure to check it out!

Enjoy!

eliesa

New Studio Website - LIVE!

2008-09-25T13:18:00.002-05:00

We have FINALLY launched our new website, featuring our kick ass new studio! Our goal is to utilize the studio to it's fullest potential and offer a space that is creative and inspiring for not just us, but others as well! We will be renting the studio out on a monthly and daily basis for photographers who would like to use the space. Currently, all monthly spaces are filled, but we are still renting out on a per-day basis. We have been SUPER happy with the studio so far and absolutely LOVE the experience that people have overall - from photographer to client. To check out the new site, Click HERE!

Enjoy! We will be updating the site as we settle in a little more, so keep checking back to see what's new!

eliesa

Oh Canada...again!

2008-09-22T19:20:00.002-05:00

I'm off to Vancouver for the week for a couple shoots and such! My crew will be holding down the studio while I am gone, so if you need anything, please feel free to e-mail me and we will get right back to you! I will be back in the studio October 1st!

Cheers and have a fabulous week!

eliesa

Photogen Inc Featured on Southern Weddings!

2008-09-22T08:13:00.003-05:00

Yeaaaahhhhhhh! Southern Wedding, one of THE biggest wedding magazines/blogs in the country has featured the Oh-So-Fabulous Allender Wedding!!! Part 1 of 2 is up for the world to see, so make sure to check back and see the rest! (Update...See Part 2 HERE!)

Click HERE to see!!

For all of you brides-to-be, Southern Weddings is a FABULOUS source for inspiration...mark that on your list!

Thank you to Abby and Thad once again for an AMAZING wedding!

eliesa

Catching up!

2008-09-21T15:09:00.003-05:00

I got to catch up with one of my best friends growing up - and it was SO much fun! Andy and I go way back, like riding the bus in elementary school back! It is always great catching up with old friends, but even better when you hear that people are following their dreams and pursuing their passions! Andy is a super-cool music teacher and I am SO happy for him!

...of course, I couldn't help but take some photos...Anyone know The Darkness? This is what he is rockin to!...

eliesa

Lindsey and Cole: Engaged!

2008-09-19T15:58:00.002-05:00

Lindsey and Cole are a special couple to me! I have known them since I was little and we all grew up in the same small town! For as long as I can remember, these two have been together and they are finally getting hitched next summer!

...Lindsey has THE coolest eyes EVER! Simply gorgeous!...

...So, as we were shooting, a passer-by noticed Lindsey and Cole's Harley shirts! Cole is a die-hard Harley Fan and they dude asked if he wanted the garage door opened, since he had 'a couple' bikes inside. Cole just about DIED when he opened the door...there were like 30 bikes in there!

Congratulations to Lindsey and Cole on their engagement!

eliesa

It's finally here......!!!!!!!

2008-09-17T16:11:00.003-05:00

Canon FINALLY and OFFICIALLY announced the new 5d Mark II today! I - and every other photographer I know - have been WAITING for this camera for a while now! For a full review, check out dpreview...I can't wait to get this camera...ASAP!

WOOO HOOOOO for a new camera!!!!!!!

eliesa

Beauty Bump!

2008-09-17T14:47:00.002-05:00

How gorgeous is this soon-to-be mom?!?!?!?! I had a BLAST shooting Tracy the other day! Tracy owns a fabulous restaurant in the cities called the Birchwood Cafe, which has been a staple in the community for many years! Her little bundle of joy should be here in just a few short weeks!

Congratulations! You are going to be One. Hot. Mama!

eliesa

One. Hot. Family!

2008-09-16T16:45:00.002-05:00

I think we have discovered the next Baby Gap model! Little Ellianna is the smiliest baby I have ever photographed, thanks to her super gorgeous parents!

...For some reason, I absolutely, LOVE this image. There is a sense of passion, love and vulnerability all at the same time - LOVE IT!

Thank you SO much for allowing me to capture these moments for your family!

eliesa

Melanie and Dmitriy: Engaged!

2008-09-16T16:36:00.003-05:00

Melanie is a Southern California beauty who took the plunge to move to Minnesota for college. (Yes, we still think she is crazy for leaving sunny Cali for MinneSNOWta! ;0) Initially, Mel was only suppose to stay for 1 year, but loved it so much that a few years later, she is still here and engaged to the oh-so-cool Dmitriy! We welcomed a special guest to their session - Goldie the Gopher!

Congratulations to Mel and Dmitriy on thier engagement! These two love birds will be getting married next summer and I can't wait!

eliesa

My Current Jam...

2008-09-11T18:16:00.003-05:00

I can not get enough of this SWEEEEEEEET song! Every time it comes on the radio, I have to stop what I am doing and start dancing around the studio while lip syncing... and adding in a little air-trumpet too! It's Ray LaMontagne's new single, 'You are the Best Thing'! Have a listen, I guarantee you will LOVE it!

Enjoy!

eliesa

Testing, Testing....

2008-09-09T13:32:00.002-05:00

Every now and again, I LOVE to test out new lighting techniques and just screw around in the studio! We just put the finishing touches on our studio lighting set-up and we wanted to test it out!

...Don't ask...

eliesa

Hasselblad Images!

2008-09-09T12:17:00.001-05:00

Here are a few film shots we took for the Allender wedding! We left on some sloppy borders, I love that!

Enjoy!

eliesa

Photogen Inc Featured on Little Diva Designs!

2008-09-09T10:26:00.003-05:00

I don't shoot babies often, but when Erick and Bri welcomed little Lillie to the world, I couldn't wait to photograph her! The Deleon's got these UBER CUTE baby announcements made by Little Diva Designs and they are A-DORABLE! This company features baby announcements, holiday cards, shower invites, thank you's AND wedding invitations! Sounds like a one-stop-shop to me!

eliesa

Q&A with Eliesa!

2008-09-06T13:49:00.004-05:00

Since winning Blu Domain's 'Girl of the Year', I've been overwhelmed with e-mails from many of you photographers - THANK YOU!!! I have tried to get back to each and every one of you, but there were so many good questions asked that I felt like I should share with everyone! I finally have a moment to breathe this weekend, so in between my piles of laundry, I figure there is no better time than the present to do a little Q&A!

Q: When did you first know you wanted to be a photographer?

A: Sounds cheezy, but I always knew! As a kid, I LOVED disposable cameras and loved taking it to the lab and picking up prints! I've always loved photographs and when I discovered the darkroom, it was all over! I knew exactly what I was going to do!

...a couple early shots...

Q: What camera do you use?

A: I currently shoot with Canon 5d's (and can't WAIT for the new one to come out!). I have honestly NEVER been so in LOVE with a digital camera! I joke about long, romantic nights with the 5D, my MAC, a bottle of wine, some cheezy music and editing....yeah, all you photographers know what I'm talking about!

Q: Have you always used Canon Equipment?

A: No. When I first started shooting digitally, I was working for a newspaper and I shot Nikon for years. However, when I found the 5d, it was an instant LOVE and I decided to make the switch to invest in Canon. Personally, I couldn't be happier with Canon!

Q: What is that thing on your hip?

A: It's my BODA BAG!!!!! I HEART my Boda Bag!

Q: Have you always shot weddings?

A: No. I started out shooting journalistically, everything from pro sports to little league games to commercial product photography. I eventually started my company and began freelancing a lot of commercial/advertising/editorial work and kind of fell into weddings, not knowing if I would like them or not. I ended up loving them, because I am a sucker for love stories. I also like to use 'both sides of my brain' and keep everything fresh when it comes to my photography, so about 40% of my business is weddings and 60% is commercial/editorial.

Q: What does photography mean to you?

A: Well, it's everything I've ever known! The camera is truly an extension of my self. I love the challenge of a new editorial shoot and collaborating with art directors and models, going out on location and also in the studio, it's SO. MUCH. FUN!. However, in the commercial world, projects come and go and with each month, something bigger and better comes along. Hence, why I absolutely LOVE shooting weddings. There is something very special and sacred about being invited to shoot a couple's wedding. Those images capture the most important day of their lives and 50 years from now, people will be looking at the images and think," WOW! Look at Grandma and Grandpa!" They are family treasures that live on, which is why I love it! Whenever a couple uses my images from their engagements in a slideshow during their wedding, I ALWAYS tear up and am know to full out cry because that is why I do what I do and that is what IT is all about!

Q: What advice do you have for photographer just starting out?

A: Stay true to yourself, have fun, work harder than you ever imagined but ENJOY every second! There are a million people out there who will try to tell you how you should do things and what worked for them, but simply BEING YOU and shooting what YOU want to shoot and CREATING a business that you want to create will take you further than you realize!

Q: What is the most important element to running a photography business?

A: Momentum! It's totally necessary when running a business! Keep the ball rolling by challenging yourself creatively! Set goals and refer to those goals! Personally, I write down goals I have for each week, month, year and 5 years! It helps me SO much to look at those and I've suprised myself which how much I have accomplished in such a short amount of time! New doors of opportunity open EACH DAY, I encourage everyone to act on those opportunities, what do you have to lose?

Q: What websites do you follow for up-to-date-information?

A: To be honest, I am not much for sitting on forums or surfing the internet for that matter, thank GOD I have the Juddster and Eli who ARE the internet for me! ;0) (Thanks guys!) Some of our favorites here at Photogen Inc are: Pro Photo Hub, DPReview, Strobist, and Canon Rumors.

Q: What inspires you?

A: So much inspires me! Being in a new space, creating, and collaborating! Tackling a new project - whether that be a commercial project or wedding - gets me SO pumped up! My high school photo teacher, Mr. Ron Marschel was and STILL has been the most influential person in my career! He instilled me with concepts, attitude and outlook from the beginning that has stuck with me all this time! He's a crazy dude with 1 leg, a pacemaker and grey hair and the dude is SERIOUSLY BAD-ASS! Fine Art inspires me, one of my favorite artists is Patrick Pryor, who I have been lucky enough to collaborate with in the past! Fashion and music are absolutely inspiring to me, I can't get enough of it! GQ as of lately has been a HUGE inspiration to me on a recent commercial project! (It launches in October and it sooooo SWEEEEET!) And last but not least, my team of people! I am the luckiest girl to have my 'Dream Team' of Judd, Brandon, Cadence, and Eli with me every single step of this journey! Oh! AND....film, the darkroom, shoes and Canada!

Q: Do you think a studio is necessary?

A: For me, YES! A studio is not right for everyone, but a creative space that you can freely work at and invite clients into that space is essential. We just moved into a new studio a few months ago and will be launching a website to show that off (SOOON! I promise!)

Hopefully this helps some of you out there! Have a FABULOUS weekend!

eliesa

Photogen Inc Blog Episode #1!

2008-09-03T19:42:00.004-05:00

Ladies and Gentleman, it's finally here! I'm proud to announce our very first rockin' BLOG EPISODE!!!!!! I've wanted to do this for a while, because my team and I have SO. MUCH. FUN. when we are shooting - not to mention all the shenanigans we get into throughout the day! Abby and Thad were awesome enough to let us tape during their big day - THANK YOU! This is our pilot episode, so let us know what you think!

Enjoy!

eliesa

Mr. and Mrs. Allender!

2008-09-02T13:03:00.003-05:00

A photographer's dream. Seriously, this is exactly what this past weekend was! First, I had the pleasure (and honor!) of shooting Abby and Thad, who are an fabulous couple! Secondly, Thad is an amazing photographer himself, so shooting their wedding was a true honor! (Check Thad's work out here! ) And lastly, I got to GEEK out the entire day! Thad and Abby had old school cameras out everywhere, shutters were clicking all day and everything was simply pure bliss!

...I absolutely LOVE this shot! Everyone, meet Dillon: Best Man, Future Photographer and THE coolest 10 year old around!...

...This is one of my favorite shots on the day! Abby is SO gorgeous!...

...We shot a few rolls of medium format...I will share those soon!...

...Check out these FABULOUS flowers! I love how each bouquet is totally unique!...

...Of course, there were polaroid cameras EVERYWHERE! I had to add this in...

A HUUUUGE congratulations to Abby and Thad! Thank you SO much for allowing my to capture your big day!

eliesa

Paddle Boarding!

2008-08-26T17:23:00.002-05:00

Who knew standing on a surf board could be so much fun? Ok, so it's not really a surf board, but it's the closest we have here in Minnesota! The month of September is looking to be a bit of a break for me! I'm super excited to take some extra time to enjoy the tail end of summer and re-charge my batteries! I thought I would start the fun a little early today (while on our 'workout around the lake') and my best friend and I decided to rent paddle boards! It was SO. MUCH. FUN! and even though it was a bit challenging with the wind (yes, I fell for the record) we had a blast! And...it is seriously a great workout! I think I am addicted!

Enjoy!

eliesa

Metro: September Issue

2008-08-22T10:42:00.002-05:00

The September issue of Metro Magazine is about to hit stands! Here's what Photogen Inc has featured this month!

Have a fabulous weekend everyone!

eliesa

...Tis The Season...

2008-08-18T15:32:00.000-05:00

...For a messy, messy desk! Anyone else feeling like this?

eliesa

Sarah and Donny: Engaged!

2008-08-18T15:22:00.002-05:00

Sarah and Donny are a very special couple! Sarah is from London and met Donny when she moved here for work a few years ago! I absolutely love this couple because with the first shot out of the camera, they were totally comfortable with each other, which I think says a lot! Not to mention, they are SUPER cool and hilarious AND Sarah has a rockin accent!

Sarah and Donny are getting married in just a couple short weeks! Congratulations to the lucky and oh-so-happy couple!

eliesa

Portraits

2008-08-12T15:46:00.002-05:00

A good portrait. It should be strong, intense, and intimate all while combining the subjects personality. This week, I get the EXTREME pleasure of shooting a feature for a magazine and doing portraits of all my subjects! So far, they are looking AMAZING, but I will share more of that once the issue comes out in October. For now, Brandon helped me out today and we messed around with some sweeeeeeeet lighting and the 50mm 1.2......butter! I LOVE IT!

...This picture gets better and better the more you look at it!...

eliesa

Mr. and Mrs. Jennings!

2008-08-10T12:44:00.002-05:00

Cierra and Dillon have an extremely strong relationship! They've been through a roller-coaster of trials during the years they have been together, but their love stayed strong all the way through! This couple had a 'star theme' wedding at the fabulous McNamara Alumni Center!

...The show-stoppers!...

...I absolutely LOVE night shots!...

Congratulations to Cierra and Dillon!

eliesa

Abby and Ian: Engaged!

2008-08-05T18:59:00.002-05:00

There are those who rush into love and there are those who wait. Abby waited for the PERFECT man of her dreams - and Ian is one lucky man! I absolutely love how nerdy they are together! (And this is a HUGE compliment coming from the nerd of all nerds!) This super cute couple will be getting hitched this fall and I am super excited!

...This first image is straight out-of-camera and the second image is snazzed up a bit! I LOVE them both!...

...This image is out-of-camera as well! No photoshop needed - I LOVE LIGHT!...

...Ok, so Ian brought along a 'secret little prop' to surprise Abby with. It was none other than his old and UBER nerd-y prescription sunglasses that Abby absolutely hates!...See her reaction below!...

Congratulations to Abby and Ian on their engagement!

eliesa

A little Inspiration!

2008-08-05T12:51:00.002-05:00

I've been editing all day and I came across this picture. I was SO inspired by it! I'm not totally sure why. Maybe it's the color, reflection or vague ghost of something or someone in the corner - or maybe the extreme negative space on the side...?!?!? I love it though! This is another cool thing about what I do. I love to be inspired, be surrounded by people who inspire me, work in a space that is inspiring and just CREATE!

eliesa

Cabin Fever!

2008-08-04T12:57:00.004-05:00

So, my days off are few and far between, but when I do have a moment, I like to make the most of it! This Sunday I headed to the cabin - and the weather was horrible! It was pouring rain almost all day, but I managed to get a quick run in on the wake board! Watch out...olympics 2012 here I come!!!!

...The pups - How cute are they?!?!?! Yes - they are wearing life jackets! Safety First!...

....I'm currently editing and can't move from wake boarding, but it was SO. MUCH. FUN!

eliesa

Party like a ROCKSTAR!

2008-08-04T12:54:00.002-05:00

This is sooooo sweet, I just HAD to blog about it! Erick, Bri and little Lillie stopped in the studio last week - check out this AWESOME ROCKSTAR baby...this is how she rolls!

eliesa

And What?!?!

2008-08-01T10:24:00.003-05:00

Haha....so I haaaaaaavvvvvvveeeee to blog about my uber complicated process of taking my photo for the blu website! Cadence and I went out a few days ago and tried a million different things...this is the final image...

HOWEVER...THESE are the out takes....Hahaha, they crack me up!

...My Napoleon Dynamite moment...

Have a FABULOUS weekend everyone!

eliesa

Celebration!!!

2008-07-31T11:48:00.002-05:00

Last night, a few of my friends decided to go out and celebrate the recent awesome-ness that has happened! It was a beautiful summer night in MN, so we headed out to the rooftops! We were joined by special guest Shannon Sewell who is in town shooting with Michael B - and the lovely Sally of La Vie Photography popped in as well!

...I couldn't let anyone leave without some e-photos!...

Thank you SO much to everyone who came out last night! I had a blast and your friendship and support means the world to me!

CHEERS!

Woo Hoo: Art!

2008-07-30T18:02:00.004-05:00

Look what came in the mail today! 6 Kick Ass canvases to be exact! I was asked a few weeks ago to put art up in the new ALoft Hotel, which will be opening here in Minneapolis in about 1 week! The show will be up for 6 months - and YES! All prints are for sale! Here is a quick peek, I will post more when it actually hangs!

eliesa

August Issue: Metro Magazine - Check It Out!

2008-07-29T17:11:00.002-05:00

Check out the newest issue of Metro Magazine! I absolutely LOVE the cover by the FABULOUS Sarah Rubinstein - she has some kick ass shots throughout the issue as well! I feature another installment of Self-Styled, some yummy food and a shot in a sweet media story!

The issue will be on news stands August 1! ENJOY!

eliesa

I WON!!!! BLU Domain's 'GIRL OF THE YEAR'!!!!

2008-07-28T07:34:00.003-05:00

YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have SUCH good news! I woke up this morning to find out that I won the award for Blu Domain's 'GIRL OF THE YEAR'!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is HUGE! This award is SO special, because all of YOU showed your support and LOVE!

Here's a snippet from the e-mail I got from Blu...

ELIESA

Hello congratulations! WOOHOO! You are BLU GIRL OF THE YEAR!

Votes came from all around the world including Finland, Sweden, Puerto
Rico, Brazil, Singapore, New Zealand, France, Poland, Hong Kong,
Japan, Holland, Phillippines, Spain, Belgium, Argentina, Slovakia,
Germany, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Moldova, Morocco,
Saint Kits and Nevis, Kazakhstan, Norway, Bermuda, Hungary, Iceland,
Indonesia, Austria, Chile, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Domanician
Republic, Finland, Switzerland, Thailand, Ukraine and Slovenia!

That's what we love about you! You will grace our site for one whole
year!

I still can't quite wrap my mind around all of this - but I know I am SO EXCITED!!!! I had a feeling that this year was going to be FABULOUS - we are going to have SO. MUCH. FUN!

THANK YOU SOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH to all of you who took the time to vote for me AND say some fabulous, heartwarming and humbling comments on the Blu Blog!

Check out the other winner's websites...

'Guy of the Year' - Nate Kaiser of The Image is Found
'Best Senior Photographer' - Brianna Graham - WOO HOO! LOVE HER!
'Best Childrens Photographer' - Rachel Devine
'Best Actions' - The Boutwells - THESE TWO ROCK!!!!!!!!
'Best Forum' - Flickr

eliesa

Mr. and Mrs. Weisbrod!

2008-07-27T14:54:00.005-05:00

I had SO much fun shooting Stacey and Mike's wedding this weekend! This couple's day was perfect in so many ways. 1) The weather - it was pouring rain, even minutes up until their outdoor ceremony, but the sun was shining all the way through! 2) Their Vows - Stacey and Mike wrote their own vows and I don't think there was a dry eye in the crowd. They were SO touching! 3) The amount of love that their family and friends showed - topped off with an ice cream parlor instead of wedding cake...LOVE IT!

Congratulations to the newlyweds! Thank you so much for allowing me to capture your day!

eliesa

LOVE my job!

2008-07-25T23:25:00.002-05:00

It's a Friday night at 11.30. I have a wedding to shoot tomorrow and I should really be getting some shut-eye, but I had THE most amazing wedding today and I am totally geeking out over some of these shots! I thought I would share a quick one with you!

There's plenty more where that came from! Ok...I'm seriously going to bed...

eliesa

LAST DAY TO VOTE!!! BLU DOMAIN's 'GIRL OF THE YEAR NOMINEE!' VOTE NOW!

2008-07-25T15:32:00.001-05:00

Whaa!!! I am SUPER excited to announce that I have been nominated for Blu Domain's 'Girl of the Year' Award! This is SUCH an honor and all the girls who have been nominated are SERIOUSLY cool and are SERIOUSLY talented!!!

What is this award? It's described as...

Blu's Girl of the Year! (she should be energetic and passionate about her craft + we want the girl that everyone loves!)

Blu never forgets the first time we discover girls with gigantic personalities. Personalities that are so magnetic they usually get them anywhere or anything they wish! Sparkling talent on top of that. WOOHOO!

Needless to say, these rock star girls of the photography industry would be nothing without the fans! So get your VOTE on below.

CLICK HERE TO ROCK YOUR VOTE!!!

With this description alone, I'm completely ecstatic for just being nominated! However, when there is a competition, I am out to WIN! This is a national competition/recognition and I am just so blessed to be a part if it!

SO...If you think I deserve and can ROCK THIS TITLE for 1 YEAR, then I NEED YOUR VOTE!

LOVE!e

Please allow me to take this moment....

2008-07-24T15:58:00.002-05:00

...to thank my A-MAZING assistants! I only have a couple photos to share, but a SUPER HUUUUGE THANK YOU to Brandon, Kate, Cadence, and Ryan! You all have helped me out so much this year - CHEERS to the rest of the season!

...this is what happens when I edit too much and need a break...

Thanks again assistant! I couldn't do this without you!

eliesa

Julie and Mark: Engaged!

2008-07-23T16:19:00.002-05:00

Mark is a cop, Julie a soon-to-be lawyer! This is one couple you don't want to mess with! Just kidding - Julie and Mark are great friends of mine and they are will be tying the knot next year in upper Michigan! I am SO pumped for their wedding!

Congratulations to Julie and Mark on your engagement!

eliesa

Little Lillie Rose!

2008-07-23T16:15:00.002-05:00

WOOO HOOO!!!! Last Friday, Lillie was born! I got to meet her earlier this week...she is just too cute!

Congratulations to Erick and Bri on their little bundle of extreme cuteness!

eliesa

My German Sister!

2008-07-18T19:18:00.003-05:00

Ok, so we are not really sisters. However, when we were younger, that is what we called each other! Everyone - meet Magdalena! (aka...maggie, lena, and every other nickname we could possibly think of!). Maggie, as I like to call her, was an exchange student of mine about 10 years ago! About 3 weeks ago, I got an e-mail saying she was coming to visit! She has now gone back to Germany, but we had a BLAST hanging out again after soooo long! Cheers to Maggie! See you soooooon!

...Me 'I have a great idea for a photo!' - Maggie 'Oh no!!!!!' - Me 'Yes! We have to, it will be fabulous!'...

eliesa

Happy Friday!

2008-07-18T11:12:00.002-05:00

Today has been one of those perfect days! I decided to spend the day editing in my pj's and favorite slippers and I have been SO productive! (In between having my 'breaks' in which I crank up the radio, run around the house rockin out to some music and dancing all sorts of crazy-like!)

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend!

eliesa

Ashley and Adam: Engaged!

2008-07-17T09:20:00.002-05:00

Homegrown L.O.V.E. That is the perfect description of this oh-so-cute couple! Ashley and Adam met 4 years ago when Adam sold her a truck! Needless to say, she got way more out of the deal - a soon-to-be husband! For their engagement session, I traveled up to their farm and I can not tell you how much FUN I had riding around on a farm! SO inspiring!

Congratulations to Ashley and Adam on their engagement! Stay tuned for a super cool wedding this winter!

eliesa

Mr. and Mrs. Reiter!

2008-07-15T17:20:00.002-05:00

Woo Hoo! I had a blast this last weekend shooting Kelley and Nate's wedding! Kelley is my old roomie, so it was a true pleasure to capture her big day! I am so happy for these two - and Nate is SO in love with his bride - it is simply SO. ADORABLE! They also got married on the hottest day so far this summer and it was a real steamy affair...

...Ok, I had to put this shot up here! It just cracks me up, because it is SO Nate! This is the moment in which he was waiting to see Kelley for the first time and he was still a goofball through the nerves!...

Congratulations to Kelley and Nate! I wish you two THE best and happiness!

eliesa

Abby and Thad: Engagement!

2008-07-13T11:13:00.002-05:00

I absolutely LOVED shooting Abby and Thad this last week! Not only are they a amazing couple, but we ended up shooting their engagement session on their 2 year anniversary and right at the spot where Thad proposed! This brought a special element to the day! I can not express how much Thad truly adores his wife-to-be! These two are just tooooo cute!

Congratulations to Abby and Thad on their engagement! Stay tuned, their wedding is only a few weeks away and it is going to be fabulous!!!!

eliesa

MN Bride: New Issue on Stands!

2008-07-09T14:55:00.000-05:00

The newest issue of Minnesota Bride just hit the news stands! It's a jammed packed, AWESOME issue with TONS of my favorite people in the industry! One of my favorite weddings last year is featured!

...Last night was also MN Bride's 'Best Of' Awards and they had this FABULOUS photobooth...

eliesa

Mr. and Mrs. Odney!

2008-07-08T11:00:00.002-05:00

Whaaaa! I could hardly wait for Lisha and Andrew's big day after I shot their AWESOME engagement session a couple months ago! Their wedding day was even more fabulous than I had anticipated - and the best part was, Love was truly in the air! Lisha and Andrew have a bond unlike any other couple I have seen!

...I love this shot! It is when Lisha saw her little brother, Taylor, for the first time!...

Congratulations to Lisha and Andrew!

eliesa

July METRO - On Stands Now!

2008-07-02T15:54:00.003-05:00

Happy July Everyone! The new issue of METRO is on news stands and features a great 'July Guide' that seriously has everything you could possibly do in July! I've also taken over another fashion shoot each month for METRO, that features local people with AWESOME style! I will be shooting this each month, so be sure to CHECK IT OUT!

eliesa

Kati and Josh: Married! A JNP Studio Wedding!

2008-07-01T21:46:00.004-05:00

This past weekend, I got the absolute pleasure of 2nd shooting for the awesome Jeffrey of JNP Studios! I met Jeffery in Vegas this past spring and he asked me to shoot a MN wedding with him. I was thrilled to shoot with Jeffery and I couldn't be happier with these images! It was also SO great to unleash my creativity and focus on the little things...

...Some sexy shoe shots!...

...I'm obsessed with this shot!...

...Right before the rain...

...The mother-son dance was to the one and only THRILLER!...

Whew! What a GREAT wedding! Thank you SO much to Jeffrey for allowing me to photograph with you!

eliesa

A little Cali, A little Camera, a FUN Shoot!

2008-07-01T21:33:00.002-05:00

This past week, a fabulous friend and photographer, Jeffrey of JNP Studios graced us with his presence! He was here to shoot a wedding (which I assisted and was SO great!) and came a week early to hang out. We put together an impromptu shoot and it was SO. MUCH. FUN! Here's a Peek....

...testing lighting and LOVE this image!...

...Michah came out to do hair - Thanks Michah!...

...And That's a Wrap!...

eliesa

Studio Launch Party: Photobooth!

2008-06-26T11:49:00.003-05:00

Thank you SOOOOO much to everyone who came to the grand opening of my new studio! It was so great to have everyone experience the new space! As always...the photobooth...

...bosslady...

...The Photo Girls...

...The Ladies from BeeTour Photography!...

...The bad-ass Jeffrey - check him out!...

...I really am jealous of this camera!...

...After hours we tried our hands with painting with light!...

...A VERY SPECIAL THANK YOU to Sadie from Sadie's Floral for donating all these GORGEOUS arrangements for the party!...

eliesa

Cool Doog...

2008-06-23T12:05:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday!

eliesa

Apiary Design: New Website!

2008-06-22T10:42:00.004-05:00

Another of my commercial projects has just launched and I am SO excited about it! I shot an ad campaign a few months ago for a wonderful and SUPER fabulous stationary line, Apiary Design! Romance just oooooooozes from this line, which was the ultimate feel we wanted for the campaign! I encourage everyone to check out Apiary Design - their products include SUPER cool cards for all occasions, thank-you's, menus, business cards and SO much more! You can also customize your own stationary to be fabulous for YOU!

Photogen Inc made a little cameo in this super cool little behind-the-scenes movie!

eliesa

Expecting: Joy!

2008-06-19T10:59:00.002-05:00

This past week, I shot another expecting mother - the oh-SO-fabulous Joy of Joynoelle! Joy is one of those people that brings excellence with everything she does and I know she will be a truly remarkable mother!

Congratulations to Joy and her husband on their soon-to-be bundle of JOY!

eliesa

Happy 70th Birthday!

2008-06-15T13:10:00.002-05:00

I was asked to shoot a 70th birthday party this past week. I was SO happy that I took this shoot, because this family was amazing - and truly had a classy affair! The party took place at the Minikahda Country Club and the attire was black tie - here are some of my favorites!

...The birthday boy and his lovely wife!...

Happy Birthday Mike! Congratulations!

eliesa

Happy Fathers Day!

2008-06-14T15:04:00.000-05:00

This past week my dad fufilled one of his lifetime goals: scuba diving! He passed his certification test, so he's ready to go!

...Baywatch Moment!...

eliesa

It's Officially Summer!

2008-06-13T13:48:00.004-05:00

...I've had my first Mojito, it's official! :0) LOVE IT!

...my friend Cadence took this shot of our friend Michaela (while we were all enjoying our mojitos! ;0) - I LOVE IT!

Cheers to a fabulous SUMMER!

eliesa

New Ad Campaign - Hits the Streets!

2008-06-13T13:40:00.002-05:00

I shot an ad campaign a month back for Vita.Mn, which is a super cool what-to-do guide for the Twin Cities put out by the Star Tribune! The campaign will be featured on the sides of buses through out the metro area all summer, along with a large print and online campaign as well! There are 6 different images, so keep your open for it!

... This is another random ad for Vita.mn, which actually featured photos from a YEAR ago! Photographers remember - photos never expire!...

You can catch some behind the scenes photos from an earlier blog post HERE!

eliesa

Lillie Rose: Almost Here!

2008-06-11T17:44:00.004-05:00

You may all remember Erick and Bri from their A-MAZING wedding earlier this year....guess what? They're about to have a baby and I am JUST ecstatic for these two! First, I have never seen a couple be SO excited about having a baby! Secondly, I have never sensed so much love from an expecting couple. These two have absolutely no nerves, just pure excitement! Lillie should be here soon - everyone can't wait to meet her!

It's so great to continue to be a part of my client's lives after their wedding! Thank you two SO much for allowing me to capture this time in your lives!

eliesa

Stacey and Mike: Engaged!

2008-06-11T14:35:00.002-05:00

Stacey and Mike are SUCH a great couple - one of those couples that just fit! These two met through mutual friends, but Stacey had actually seen Mike before and had her eye on him! How cute! That is what I love about LOVE - the fact that you could meet the person you are going to spend the rest of your life with by passing them on the street or growing up blocks away - you just never know!

Congratulations to Stacey and Mike on their Engagement! I'm soooooo excited for the big day!

eliesa

Introducing: New Proofing Site!

2008-06-06T18:06:00.005-05:00

For all my photographer friends - check out my new proofing site! This company provides photographers with kick ass proofing sites! These sites are totally customizable to your website and the best part is, there is a one-time set up fee and that's it! No more $$ taken away from your pocket! AND - it gets better! There is also a SUPER, UBER great backside that helps track your orders, send invoices, create promotions, etc - basically a studio manager all in one! AND - these dudes are local, based right here in Mpls! WOO HOO! It's taken me about a week to get accustom to the site and I still have some tweaking to do, but I couldn't be happier with it! And the customer service has been PHENOMENAL!

So, here is my website. Once my clients click on PROOF, it goes to my new proofing site!

You can display all your galleries on the home page, and also categorize them (bottom right corner)...

Clients can select their favorite images and add them to a Favorites folder, zoom and compare as well!

The shopping cart is SUPER user friendly...LOVE IT!

Clients can also select their favorite images and 'Add to Album' which helps yours truly design their books!

A larger view is always nice...

There is also this nifty little store in which you can set up special promotions, product and services for your clients!

Ok, enough babbling, but seriously photographers - if you are looking for the answer to your proofing woes - this ROCKS!

eliesa

Sam and Maryann Kwon: Married!

2008-06-05T13:22:00.002-05:00

This past weekend, I had the extreme pleasure of shooting Sam and Maryann's wedding! You might remember them from their rockin NYC engagement session - ever since then, I have been looking forward to their big day! The Kwon's wedding took place at the super posh Walker Art Center, and despite tornado-looking weather, their day was absolutely PERFECT!

...Maryann is a fashion designer in NYC - she designed her wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses!...

...Sam works for Ralph Lauren, hence the sweet suits and rockin bow ties!...

...the calm before the storm...

...not so sure what happened here...

...what a GORGEOUS wedding party!...

...Maryann changed in traditional Korean dress for the reception! Sam could not have been more proud of his 'Korean Bride'!...

Congratulations to the Sam and Maryann! I couldn't be happier for the two of you!

eliesa

Kelley and Nate: Engagements!

2008-06-02T20:01:00.002-05:00

This couple holds a very special place in my heart! Kelley is actually my old roommate who took me in at a time where I really needed a place to live! And I must say, she was a great roommate as well! I couldn't be happier that she found Nate! These two are SOOOO adorable, I can not wait for their wedding...it's only a few weeks away!

...Nate is a true ROCKER!...

...I think this is HILARIOUS!...

Congratulations to Kelley and Nate!

eliesa

Happy Birthday!

2008-05-31T11:46:00.003-05:00

...It was my best friend's birthday this past week....HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

eliesa

This is How We Roll...

2008-05-30T15:14:00.003-05:00

Another Photographer took this of us a few weeks ago...It's PERFECT!

Have a Fabulous Weekend!

e

p.s...I have BIG THINGS to show you...SOOON!!!!!

A Photo Essay...

2008-05-29T12:00:00.002-05:00

I have THE best job in the world! I am absolutely blessed to have the opportunity to take photographs, but also to choose what I shoot. I started off shooting for a newspaper and I loved covering stories and sharing it with the community everyday. More importantly, all those stories opened my eyes to many different things! This past week, I was shooting some photos for an organization called Neighborhood House. This is a school for adult immigrants to come and learn English, develop skills and go on to get their GED. I think sometimes we judge immigrants too early. These people have come to our country to make a difference AND a better life for themselves! I forgot how hard it is to simply learn english, let alone live in the country where you are surrounded by a language you don't understand! For example, how do you explain the difference between cut, slice and chop?

...here students were learning how to make omelets...yumm!

...Where are you from?...

The most amazing thing about this program is the amount of volunteers who teach. I assumed all these instructors were ESL teachers - nope! They are students, doctors, lawyers and stay at home moms who simply want to give back and make a difference! If you are interested in volunteering, contact the Neighborhood House - they would be happy to have you!

eliesa

Lisha and Andrew: Engagement!

2008-05-23T11:50:00.002-05:00

Let me start off my saying that I have THE BEST clients EVER! Seriously, every couple seems to fit me to a T and I LOVE them all! Lisha and Andrew are a wonderful, fabulous couple who really have a passion for their love and each other! For their engagement session, we went back to the place where it all started...

Congratulations to LIsha and Andrew on their engagement! Their wedding is less than 2 months away and I couldn't be more excited!

eliesa

The Finale!

2008-05-22T10:06:00.004-05:00

So, now we all know my LOVE for American Idol - Well, last night was the finale and I was SO busy with the new studio I almost missed it! I think the best part of the show was the top 12's mix of George Michael songs. George Michael holds a special place in my heart, because my best friend is from Poland and OBSESSED with him! You have never seen anyone dance until you see this girl dance to 'Faith' I was super excited when they sang these songs - in case you missed it, here it is - complete with UBER CHEEZY choreography! Also, David Cook won WOO HOO! I couldn't be happier!

eliesa

Nicole and Nate: A Gift!

2008-05-19T09:55:00.002-05:00

Nicole has been one of my absolute best friends since 2nd grade! I recently shot her and her brother Nate as a surprise gift for their parents wedding anniversary! Nicole also just graduated - Congratulations!

...Nate flew all all the way from Texas for our little shoot - thanks Nate!...

...Isn't she gorgeous?!?! I couldn't be more proud of Nicole for her accomplishments and I honestly could not ask for a better friend over the years either! I am one lucky girl!

Thanks to Nicole and Nate for letting my photograph them at this moment in their lives! And congrats to Don and Jean on their wedding anniversary! Enjoy!

eliesa