Suzanne Winter Photography Blog

Baby Lucy (Newborn Photography)

2011-08-22T07:58:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to get to photograph sweet little Lucy - newly home from the hospital, I just knew that she would be so sleepy and cuddly and I would get to do so many amazing set ups with hats and tutus and fabrics - and it was such a gorgeous day I even thought I might get her outside in my super cool trench bowl.

Well Lucy, my friends and faithful readers, had other plans!

I think she and baby Hannah (see post below) may have conspired against me and decided to test just how much I wanted to photograph them. Well, little did they know that nothing would make me give up the quest to get the perfect shot!

All jesting aside, Lucy may have been awake the ENTIRE 3 hours that I worked with her, but in that time she only cried once. She was just content to be awake and watching the world around her. Every once in a while she would close her eyes for a moment, teasing me into thinking that finally she was drifting into dream land, but two shutter clicks later and those soulful eyes would pop back open waiting to see what I would do next.

I fear I may be loosing my magic touch as the 'Baby Whisperer' ;op But as long as I get to have fun and hold sweet little babes, I'll never give up!

Enjoy...

Baby Hannah (Newborn Photography)

2011-08-22T06:16:00.000-07:00

Any natural light newborn photographer will tell you that there are two keys to great newborn images: one, a great natural light source (check); and two, a very sleepy baby (ummmmmmmmm - wellllllll - sometimes sleep is just not on the day's agenda).
My last two baby girls have just decided they were much more interested in me and the world around them than in sleep. But, I'm not one to give up - and who says that the best newborn photos have to be of sleeping newborns? (I'm going to ignore Kelly Ryden, Sandy Puc, and all those other mega starts of the newborn photography world! - well at least when my babies wont cooperate ;op)
So here is Hannah - such a cutie, with so much hair, and soooo alert. We finally got her to doze off for the last 5 minutes - amazing what can happen in 5 minutes!

Enjoy!

Courtney & Jeff Engaged

2011-07-29T05:46:00.000-07:00

I love when I get couples who have an idea - an out of the box idea - and are willing to let me play and make that idea become a reality. Courtney and Jeff are one such couple.
After booking me for their wedding, Courtney e-mailed me to discuss the plans for their engagement session. Turns out that they started dating during Arts Fest 2005. And the dates of Arts Fest 2011 matched up, so could we please please do the engagement session at Arts Fest to commemorate their dating anniversary - OF COURSE!
Courtney loves candid images, captured details, and cupcakes - I knew I could accommodate! I can't wait for Courtney & Jeff's wedding, their smiles are simply infectious and they don't take themselves or life too seriously - a combination that makes this photog happy.
So don't be afraid of crazy ideas - I'm game for whatever you want to throw my way!

Special thanks to *ndulge Cupcake Boutique (http://www.ndulgecupcakes.com/) for letting us in.

Kelton Senior Session

2011-07-28T16:31:00.000-07:00

Kelton is such a great senior to kick of the season with. I had a great time hanging out with Kelton, his brother, family and even the family dog - Diamond. We talked about school and soccer, and before he knew it the torture of having pictures taken was over - and who would have thought, he still had a smile on his face.

Senior Session spots are still available - so e-mail me now to set up you appointment! (suzannewinterphotography@gmial.com)

Enjoy the teasers!

Renae and Travis Married

2011-07-19T06:45:00.000-07:00

There are some weddings that make me wish I could get remarried every year (to the same man of course), and this was one of them. It would be easy to look at these images and think that this fashionista photographer simply wants her own pair of Jimmy Choos or a gazillion more options of stunning wedding gowns; but rather, it is the way Travis couldn't take his eyes off his bride, that I would love to revisit with my own true love.
All of my couples are in love - obviously, they are getting married and all - but there is something special in this couple. Every glance, every slight touch of the hand, every kiss was filled with such sheer and utter love. This wedding was undoubtedly filled with gorgeous details and beautiful things; but the most striking for me was the blinding beauty of their love for one another.

Renae&Travis, I wish you all the best!

Enjoy...

Dawn & Jason Married!

2011-07-14T14:31:00.000-07:00

April and I hit the ground running for this absolutely spectacular wedding. Suffice it to say that Dawn is a very detail oriented person - and she made sure to put special touches in every aspect of her wedding. I was floored to walk into the reception tents and see the polls lined with poster sized prints from our engagement session, what a statement and simply stunning idea! And it didn't stop there; the intricacy of the flowers, the elaborate candy buffet, sparklers to commemorate the 4th of July weekend - all combined for a feast for a photographer's eye.
I couldn't have asked for a more energetic group of people to work with (and loved all 26 members of the bridal - well 28 if we count the wee little flower girl and ring bearer). They danced their socks off and kept me laughing all day. The Scotch Run Farm was a simply breathtaking location for the reception - too bad it is being sold, I would love to shoot many more wedding there in the future!

We had a blast celebrating with you.. enjoy these teasers!

Kayla&Mike (Wedding)

2011-07-01T12:12:00.001-07:00

What a fabulous wedding! I first met Kayla at the 2009 Wedding Expo and knew immediately that this was a wedding that I wanted to be a part of. When I did their engagement session last summer I could tell instantly that these two were smitten, and their love has just blossomed through their engagement.

Once again, I had the pleasure of shooting at Grace Lutheran (aka: the Dorito Church) in downtown State College and for the first time since my own wedding I was able to revisit the Ramada - that sure brought back a ton of wonderful memories.

Every detail of this wedding, from the intricate bouquets to Kayla's blue shoes, fit perfectly into a day filled with love and laughter. Thank you for including me and making me feel like part of the family.

As you close out your first week of marriage, I wish you all the best!

Enjoy your teasers....

Lorie and Joel (Wedding)

2011-06-24T06:10:00.000-07:00

Lorie & Joel, congrats on a full week of wedded bliss!
What a fun couple to work with and such a fun wedding! I swear, Joel's family kept me in stitches the entire reception, and I wish I had gotten the name of the DJ - he was a riot!
Lorie and Joel got married at Grace Lutheran in State College with their reception following at Celebration Hall. The bright pops of color echoed the joyful feeling of the day, and this was one wedding where I hated to say good bye at the end of the night.
Wishing you all the best as you enter week two of married life!

Enjoy.....

Kate and Lucas

2011-06-20T17:50:00.000-07:00

Maybe I am just more emotional because I am a new mom, but I swear each wedding this year brings me closer and closer to tears (in a completely wonderful way!).

Kate and Lucas were simply a dream couple to work with - they were willing to do anything, completely and utterly in love, and have amazing taste! I can't even put into words how utterly breathtaking this wedding was... so I am just going to flood you with pictures - I have sooooooo many favorites. *notice that there aren't really any reception pictures, this is because it would take another entire post to do the reception justice....hmmm I may just have to create a second post (if only there were more hours in the day)!

Wedding was held at St. Luke's Episcopal, bridal party shots at Penn State Altoona, and reception at the Heritage Discovery Center in downtown Altoona (absolutely amazing location!!!)

Enjoy...

Baby Seth

2011-06-17T10:37:00.000-07:00

I had such a great time getting to photograph baby Seth on Monday at just 7 days old. This teeny tiny man is STRONG! I swear he was trying to crawl off my bean bag - yes I did say crawl, not roll, but crawl. He was pushing with both his legs and arms. My boys are 3 months and they could care less about even lifting their heads up - I may need to borrow baby Seth to teach some lessons ;o)

Luckily he was nice and sleepy when I first got there, and we eventually calmed him down again and got some precious shots. I think one of my favorites may be the scrunched up sad face - how perfectly adorable!

And once again, I have to thank Katie Daniels of Cozy Nogginz Hats (and photo props) http://www.cozynogginz.com/ her work is absolutely amazing and she keep inspiring me to new heights. I simply loooooooooooooooooooooove the little page boy cap, I swear - next time there will be something with newspapers. And that baseball - come on, there couldn't be anything more perfect for a little boy. The hungry caterpillar hat is sheer genius and was especially special since it is Seth's mama's favorite children's book (and one of mine as well!).

I would be remiss not to point out to all of my fans and loyal readers the trench bowl making its debut into my photography -it was custom made for me by a local artisan. Sheryl Groner of Gypsy Wood Arts (http://gypsywoodarts.com/) can make simply anything out of wood, and this is just one example. Check out her work!

As always -enjoy the teasers - and if you know a pregnant mama, contact me about newborn photography!

Samantha and Mike (Wedding Photography)

2011-06-10T16:40:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Samantha and Mike on one full week of wedded bliss!!!
I should have known as soon as I stepped out of my car into a sudden downpour last Saturday that this wedding would keep me on my toes and touch my heart.
Having just come off Memorial Day weekend, where my heart was filled with love for my brother in law who serves full time with the National Guard, I couldn't stop the tears from welling up as I gazed at the neatly hanging Air Force jackets in the guys' getting ready room. All I can say is 'Thank You' to all those who serve our country so proudly and put their own lives at risk to keep us safe.
And when I say 'keep me on my toes', I literally mean standing on my tippy tip toes! Mike and his NINE siblings towered above me with the guys ranging well above 6 feet.
Two became one and the clouds parted, allowing me to take my favorite shots outside before heading to the reception at Celebration Hall where laughter abounded and a potential new love may have sprung (anyone want to take bets of my shooting that wedding in 20 years or so?)

Enjoy this glimpse into a simply marvelous day...

Daniel and the Lion

2011-06-03T06:44:00.000-07:00

I had the great joy and privilege to photograph my nephew Daniel at 12 days old. Not only is he absolutely adorable, but once he feel asleep he was perhaps the easiest baby I have had the honor of shooting in quite a long time.
When I heard Daniel's name, I instantly knew that I needed to have a special piece for his session. SO, I contacted my good friend Katie D. with Cozy Nogginz hats (she makes the absolute most amazing-est stuff ever) and asked her to make me a custom Lion hat with a full mane. I was overjoyed when the package arrived with the most adorable little lion hat - complete with chin strap mane.
BE PREPARED -there are a lot of pictures in this post, I simply couldn't narrow down my favorite ones any further!!!
Enjoy...

In the jungle, the mighty jungle, the lion sleeps tonight...

Thats all folks -no more pictures, no more...

Generations (Family Portraits)

2011-06-01T11:32:00.000-07:00

I love getting to see generations of family gathered together! This family certainly kept me on my toes with their quick wit and awesome sense of humor, and it made my job so easy as the session flew by. I think they just may have had a good time too.

Once again I was able to partake in the beauty of the Penn State Arboretum, which gets more beautiful with each season. If you would like your family or senior portrait session taken at the Arboretum, make sure to contact me well in advance as all photo shoots must be registered with them ahead of time!

Enjoy!

Elyse & Kurt - Wedding

2011-05-28T12:38:00.000-07:00

I couldn't be happier than to have gotten to spend the day with Elyse&Kurt and their families and friends. As a photographer (especially a wedding photographer) you are constantly looking for the next thing that will inspire you. Sometimes it is a killer dress, other times cute kids who just keep stealing the show, or it might even be the crazy personality of the Best Man; but one thing that we have little control over, and is perhaps the greatest inspiration of all, is location.

Elyse and Kurt did their job well, picking a gorgeous stone church in Warriors Mark, and the always charming Marrara's Mountain Lodge. I never expected just how blessed with inspiration I would be by these locals.

I had only started oooohing and ahhing over the stone church, when I looked over my shoulder -and what to my wandering eyes should appear? A gorgeous, dilapidated, antebellum mansion. Picture location - CHECK! And then when we arrived at the Lodge I noticed that not only were the forecast storms going to bypass us, but they were instead going to leave me with the most beautiful settling fog. Talk about romantic ambiance.

I find myself inspired at every wedding I get to take part in, but these inspirational locations just beg for me to return and capture them again. So go out, look over your shoulder, and live with your eyes wide open - you never know what may inspire you!

Enjoy!

What do April Showers Bring? (Newborn Photography)

2011-05-19T13:36:00.000-07:00

Why May Flowers of course - Introducing little Lilly.

At only 7 days old, this gorgeous little girl just didn't want to miss anything happening in the world around her. She loves the sound of her daddy's voice and the warmth of the corner wood burning stove, the comfort of mama's smell and the strength of daddy's arms. And in the familiarity of her home she settles into sleep - dreaming sweet dreams of one day being a ballerina, a doctor, or a lion tamer. Just don't doubt that she will accomplish anything she sets her mind to!

So, welcome to the world Lilly - I can't wait to see what you bring to it.

Enjoy...

Emily C's Maternity (Maternity, Pregnancy)

2011-05-13T13:32:00.000-07:00

Whether pregnant in heels or barefoot and pregnant, Emily has a natural way of just making pregnancy look easy. She's cute as a button and walking around at 37 weeks as if she has all the time in the world before this little one arrives.

Emily and her husband have decided not to find out the gender of their child - allowing it be one of the few surprises left in the world (I love surprises, but I admit that I HAD to know with my own!). So we did one pink outfit and one blue, because in my world if you are going to be surprised, you have to be prepared for anything ;o) I think that however it ends up, this baby is going to be so lucky to have such a loving and devoted mama!

For the fun of it, leave a comment guessing what she will have - my guess is girl -we all have a 50/50 chance of being right!

Enjoy...

Beauty Isn't Only Skin Deep (Headshots, Portraits)

2011-05-11T14:16:00.000-07:00

It doesn't take more than a few minutes of being around Nicole to realize that she isn't your typical 22 year old. Rather than spending her time trying to get ahead in life, she takes time to help others make ends meet. She is happy to talk about fashion, but will also offer to help you with your laundry. And I did get her to talk about boys, but mainly about how she can't wait to hold my two little ones again. Perhaps there's no question as to why this young woman chose to go into ministry!

I feel so honored to have gotten to photograph this young woman who is even more beautiful inside than out.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T04:35:00.000-07:00

This is my first Mother's day as a mom - and to celebrate I want to give a gift to all my readers.

For any Portrait Session booked in the month of May (session date can be any weekday between now and September) get $50 off your session fee!!! Portrait sessions make great gifts (especially if you may be doing a belated gift for mom this Mother's Day) and Newborn Sessions make a great Baby Shower gift.

Just contact me this month and tell me why you love being a mom or why you love your mom - see, everyone gets to participate.

Happy Mothers Day!!!

*sorry this discount can not be combined with a Senior 'Friends Session' or 'August Rush Session'

Monkey-ing Around (Newborn Photography)

2011-05-05T12:46:00.000-07:00

These little monkeys are a barrel of fun. And when they aren't sleeping and eating, they love hanging around with their favorite friends. Just don't feed them a banana, or they might go ape on you!

Stay Tuned for a special announcement on Sunday in honor of all mothers, and my 1st Mother's Day!!!

Baby Susannah (Newborn Photography)

2011-04-26T12:51:00.000-07:00

What better way is there to jump into spring than by getting the opportunity to photograph a brand new life. Susannah was a joy to photograph - even if she was so excited to be in the world that she didn't want to stay asleep for more than a few minutes at a time. And let me say that for only 7 days old, little Susannah is quite a strong baby girl.

I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to capture these early moments, precious smiles, and itty bitty pink toes.

A glimpse...

Hippity-Hoppity Easter is on it's Way (Newborn Photography)

2011-04-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter to All! I hope all of my readers get to spend the weekend surrounded by family and friends, and reminded of the great gift we have been given.

I think this little bunny is plumb tuckered out!

and the Lion will lay with the Lamb (Newborn Photography)

2011-04-20T10:21:00.000-07:00

How appropriate that Easter week I received not only a great bunny hat in the mail (see post below), but an adorable little lion. I just happened to have a lamb on hand because my mother picked it up in Ireland 8 years ago when we went on a trip together. She had it hidden away without my knowledge and then gave it to me this year as an early Easter gift. I just have to say, that I love my mother and her quirky habit of just 'knowing' that something will be useful in the future.

So without further ado, a wee little lion...

'I love my lamb so much, I'll eat him - Blech!'

ROAR!!!

HATS!!!! (for newborn photography)

2011-04-19T09:24:00.000-07:00

So I recently was given the opportunity to partner with Katie Daniels of Cozy Noggins (http://www.cozynogginz.com). She makes the most adorable hats for newborns, toddlers, and kids of all ages.

She first sent me a set of tester hats for twins, and then yesterday a package showed up on my doorstep... HATS!!!!!! Hats of all colors and all varieties, and all for Newborns. I can't wait to get these gorgeous creations on the itty bitty babies that are on my schedule for the summer, of course those babies need to bake a bit longer, so I will try hard not to rush them out in all my excitement.

So here is a look at some of the creations...

what is that peaking out of my package...

and they just keep coming!
Lions and monkeys and bears....Oh MY (and a rabbit)
and a ladybug, so cute!

this might be my favorite - who wants to be the first to try it out?

and here are my sweet testers... two little cuddly bears.

Seniors 2012

2011-04-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

Nope, it is not too early to start thinking about your senior photos!!!

Here is all the information for this year - I'll add it to the website soon.

Senior year is a special time in every teen’s life. Make sure that your senior pictures reflect who you are, what your interests are, and give you what you want.

Traditional Senior Sessions Include:

-1 hour session at a location of your choice (no travel fee within State College)

-Up to four outfits

-Add your best friend or pet for no additional fee

- $50 print credit to use towards anything that you want (wallets, enlargements, brag book, etc…)

-Online gallery to view all of your proofed images and to share them with friends and family members (online print ordering couldn’t be easier)

-digital file sent to appropriate school for yearbook purposes

$200

Specials

Friends Session:

-Spend your session with a friend and share some of the cost!

-90 minute session at one location of your choice

-Up to three outfits each

-$50 print credit each

-Online gallery to view all of your proofed images and to share them with friends and family members (online print ordering couldn’t be easier) ~ any pictures taken together will be in each person's gallery

-digital file of each participant sent to appropriate school for yearbook purposes

$150/per person (up to three people)

August Rush:

-Schedule your 'Traditional Senior Session' for any Tuesday or Thursday in August and save $25. You will also receive a complimentary set of three Accordion Wallets to keep and share(photographer's choice of images). This special cannot be combined with the Friend's session, but Friends sessions can be scheduled in August.

$175

Refer a Friend:

-Refer a Friend and receive bonus bucks to apply towards your print credit!

~1 referral = $20

~2 referrals =$50

~3 referrals =$100

*Booking a 'Friends Session' does not count as a referral, referral sessions must take place at a separate time. Credit will be assessed to your account once the referred Friend's session is complete and paid in full.

Look at that Smile

2011-02-02T06:32:00.000-08:00

There are so many reasons that I love photographing babies and small children, but the main thing I love is their natural joy. Their smiles come so quickly (and at times fleetingly) and even when I didn't cause the smile to occur, I still feel such a sense of accomplishment capturing that moment for all time. Of course some babies just make your work easy.

This session seemed appropriate to showcase this month as it made me think of Valentine's Day (it was shot in the fall). So snuggle your family close, enjoy those smiles, and share the love this month!

I Love Fall for the Color!

2011-02-01T09:01:00.000-08:00

It is no wonder that more and more brides are forgoing the traditional June wedding for a date in September, October, or November. Here in PA we simply have gorgeous fall colors. The natural hues can be worked into any wedding scheme and simply scream "TAKE MY PICTURE".

Betsy and Jay took full advantage of the season by incorporating burnt oranges and deep reds into their elegant wedding at the Raystown Lake Conference Center. As you can see from the images, I was just slightly entranced by the flowers. The vibrant colors matched the joyous mood throughout the day - I love working with such happy people.

Enjoy!

Beautiful Baby

2011-01-06T07:42:00.000-08:00

I love having the chance to photograph newborns - especially with their mamas!

Josie was one of my summer babies, and simply the sweetest thing ever. We decided to break the session onto two different days to save both mama and baby from getting too worn out. I always recommend that true new born sessions take place between 5 and 12 days old, it is when you can capture all the miracles of this tiny new life. The second session we put off until Josie was about 2.5 months - this gave her some head control and some easier interaction between mama and baby.

Enjoy the sweetness!

Penn State Arboretum

2011-01-03T08:23:00.000-08:00

All right all 2011-2012 Brides, I am giving you a gorgeous new location to host your outdoor wedding. The Arboretum may be new and still filling in, but it serves as an absolutely jaw dropping location for any couple. The permanent pavilion tenting is simple and elegant, and gives you some piece of mind in case of unpredictable weather.

Kirsten and John's wedding was stunning. The fall weather was perfect, the bride was glowing, and having Herwigs cater the event was the icing on the cake (or strudel in this case).

Enjoy!

Happy New Year!!!!

2011-01-03T07:55:00.000-08:00

First, I want to apologize to all of my avid readers for the lack of new blog posts over the last few months. Business has been booming and life has been crazy, but I don't want to withhold all the fun I've been having and amazing photographs I've been taking.

So, over the next few weeks, I will be sharing (in no particular order) some of my favorite weddings and sessions from the fall... they are worth the wait!

Happy New Years to all!!!!!!!!!!!!

Adam Senior Session

2010-09-07T10:29:00.000-07:00

Adam and I headed out to the Penn State Arboretum to do his senior session. If you have not been to the Arboretum, you need to check it out. I was introduced to this great new location by a couple whose wedding I will be shooting there in October. Like the Alumni Garden's, the Arboretum does a great job of having something in bloom at all times and being immaculate. There are restrooms on site and free parking.

Adam did a great job picking a range of outfits, but I think my favorite was his suit. I rarely suggest suits for guys when doing senior sessions (because most would rather sit through a chick flick marathon than wear a tie - and I want my seniors to feel as comfortable as possible during their session), but this suit was the perfect compliment for my tall dark and handsome senior - and he rocked it!

Enjoy this small sampling for the session!

Casher's Senior Session

2010-09-07T09:27:00.000-07:00

Thats right folks, I don't just take pictures of the pretty girls of 2011 - Guys are more than welcome to sit, stand, or do cartwheels in front of my camera!

I couldn't have asked for a better subject, Casher was so relaxed throughout his session and willing to let me do anything. His sister even jumped into a few shots. This is a seriously good looking family - sorry girls he's taken.

I hope Casher and the rest of the class of 2011 are settling into their senior year!

Still need Senior Photos done? It is not too late - I can still get your yearbook shot in for even State College High's quickly approaching October deadline.

Enjoy these few images from the session!

Sarah's Senior Session

2010-08-31T11:09:00.000-07:00

I've been having so much fun with all of my seniors this year, and Sarah was no exception. I think the entire class of 2011 must be GORGEOUS!
The Alumni Gardens are not the only place to have pictures taken, but they sure do photograph perfectly every time I am there. (Don't worry, I'll have some different locations to show in upcoming blog posts!) Sarah added some personal flavor to her images by bringing along her violin.

Enjoy your first day back to school today!

Meeting in the Middle

2010-08-20T09:34:00.000-07:00

What is a couple to do when the groom lives in Canada, the bride lives in Alabama, and the couple happen to love all things Penn State - why have your wedding in State College of course! And can I just say, I am so happy that they did.

Kim and Jon planned their wedding in some ways around the photography - Jon's grandfather was a photographer and the couple knew that with so many of their friends and family unable to make their destination wedding, the photographs would be their means of sharing their wedding day with everyone they love.

This would have been an amazing wedding no matter what, but Jon and Kim got us into Beaver Stadium!!!!!!!!!!! What a highlight of my summer so far - and a source of jealousy for my wonderful husband. Penn State details abounded and added the perfect punch to such a beautiful wedding.

I wish you all the best,

Enjoy this tiny smidgen of a sampling from the day!

Megan's Senior Session

2010-08-03T06:48:00.000-07:00

Megan and I had such a great time last week taking her senior portraits at the Hintz Alumni Gardens on Penn State's Campus. These gardens never cease to amaze me, no matter what time of year they are kept gorgeous.

Megan is one of those great girls who has a spot on sense of style and is just comfortable in her own skin. We played and laughed, and were followed by every animal in the garden. I think they thought she was a princess - seriously we had squirrels, bunnies, ducks, and more clamoring for her attention. All in all it was a wonderful afternoon!

Enjoy the teasers...

Kayla & Michael

2010-07-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

I first met Kayla at the Bridal Expo in January. After hitting it off immediately, I was so happy when she contacted me to photograph her wedding.

We had a great time at Spring Creek Park for their engagement session - it was a warm summer day, perfect for cooling off in the water, stolen kisses, and just being kids at heart.

I can't wait to be a part of Kayla and Michael's wedding day!

Enjoy the teasers...

Seniors Seniors Seniors!!!

2010-07-15T11:59:00.000-07:00

Yep, it is that time of year - and I LOVE it!!! The 2011 seniors are getting ready for their last year of High School, and of course that means having their Senior Portraits done. Want more information about getting your senior portraits taken - just contact me at suzannewinterphotography@gmail.com!

Kaitlyn started off my senior season, and we had such a great time yesterday at Hintz Gardens and downtown State College. She has such a great sense of style and the coolest hair ever - there simply wasn't a pose I could put her in where she wouldn't look good. I think our final location (the red fire escape) was a bit of a surprise to them, but it just photographs so well! And you should have seen me wrestling that chair in and out of my little car - it fits, but barely.

Enjoy just a tiny taste!

Love Conquers All...

2010-07-09T10:49:00.000-07:00

There was a time when Jen and Dan did not know if they would ever reach their wedding day. A sever accident left Dan in the hospital and the couple facing the fact that they would have to put their wedding on hold. A year and a half later they overcame all adversity by leaning on each other and focusing on the future that lay ahead.

This December turned July wedding held hints of Christmas in July but only if you knew to look for them. Every detail fell into place beautifully with flowers by Woodrings provided for both the ceremony at Our Lady of Victory and the reception at the Nittany Country Club.

As you can see, Dan and Jen love each other and love to have fun. Dan kept April and I laughing all day long with non stop hilarity, only Jen's enthralling descent down the aisle could awe him to silence.

I wish you a long and smooth road ahead!

Enjoy the teasers....

Can't Beat the Real Thing

2010-07-02T13:53:00.000-07:00

Coke may have said it, but the adage is true - you can't beat the real thing;

Real Love

Real Commitment

Real Family

Real Joy

Amanda and Joey's wedding was simply brimming with real moments. The type of moments that simply make you catch your breath and forget for just a second that the world keeps moving, and time keeps passing, and oh yeah - you have a job to do, so stop standing around all misty eyed!

I knew when I photographed their engagement session last fall on Penn State's campus, that this was a couple whose wedding I would love every second of - and I was not disappointed.

For those not familiar, the Scotch Valley Country Club is well worth the drive for anyone living in the Altoona area. The grounds are gorgeous, the staff is friendly, and I simply love the windows in the ballroom.

Enjoy a small sampling, and may God bless your new life together!

This is Where God Goes on Vacation...

2010-06-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

... these were the words spoken to me by a guest last weekend at Talley and Jeff's wedding. Looking out on the 150 acre family farm, I had to admit, they had a good point.

This will rank up there as one of my favorite locations ever shot. The farm, located north of Lockhaven on the Susquehanna River, included the rustic barn backdrop for the ceremony, a one room school house, train tracks, and gorgeous summer fields - and if there were only more hours in the day there was so much more to explore!
Talley and Jeff's laid back attitude made them easy to work with and the whole wedding so relaxed and fun. The details were gorgeous, and the dessert buffet... I would tell you about it, but the drool puddling over the keyboard is making it difficult to type.

Enjoy the teasers!

Diamonds and Lace...

2010-06-17T09:40:00.000-07:00

Everyone says that rain on your wedding day is good luck, but I think you are truly blessed when every single weather report forecasts torrential thunderstorms and the sun shines through. Jessica and Michael were married on Saturday at Toftrees Resort and aside from being hot, the day was gorgeous. The facilities at Toftrees are beautiful, but add to them the genius of Daniel Vaughn and the final effect is stunning.
Being that they chose my largest package, I had the joy of spending the day with my second shooter - April. I think she and the boys may have had too much fun! April is not only my right hand and half of my brain, but having her at a wedding ensures that not a single detail or angle gets missed.
Jessica and Michael are one of those couples that feel like instant friends, and their families are no different - Thank you so much for welcoming us in with open arms. I can't wait to keep documenting the stages of their journey!

Enjoy the teasers... there are so many more that I love!

Blue Eyed Girl...

2010-06-14T12:57:00.000-07:00

Charlotte and I have been taking pictures together since she was born... and being that it has been a whole 10 weeks, I'd say she's pretty much a pro.

I had the joy of being able to accompany Charlotte and those pesky parental units to Talleyrand Park this past week. She thought the ducks, sky, trees, grass, and so forth were much more interesting than mom or dad. By the end though, we tuckered her out - and I can only image the dreams that followed.

I have been blessed to be a part of your lives.

Jessica & Shawn

2010-06-09T05:27:00.000-07:00

Jessica and Shawn love to travel -they actually met at PSU while telling students about the amazing study abroad program in Australia. So they are taking their wedding on the road and having a tropical destination wedding (I wish I could be at that!) Having met at Penn State, they found it only appropriate to come back for their engagement session. We had such a fun time laughing and playing with their two adorable dogs.

Good luck with all the wedding prep!

Ashley&Brett's Engagement

2010-06-07T14:09:00.000-07:00

Brett and Ashley contacted me to do their engagement session on Penn State's Campus since their wedding will be back home in Iowa. High school sweethearts and best friends, they were such a great couple to work with. It is absolutely impossible for me not to fall in love with the Hintz Alumni Gardens over and over - it is constantly changing and always gorgeous.

Here a just a few...

Rebecca and Tom

2010-06-05T13:51:00.000-07:00

Sorry to be such a tease last week... this was such an incredible wedding and I am so excited to share it with you all! (if you missed the original post check outhttp://suzannewinterphotography.blogspot.com/2010/05/being-tease-part-one.html )

So, Rebecca and Tom got married at Faith United Church and had their reception at the Penn Stater in the Dean's Hall - talk about absolute gorgeous locations. As most people know I have soft place in my heart for stone churches and an absolute obsession with wedding dresses. Needless to say, this wedding had me on cloud nine! As if the simple love and joy of a wedding day was not enough to make me enjoy my job, Rebecca and Tom gave me the best bridal party you could ever ask for.

I am going to diverge for a moment to talk about true gentlemen. I spent a good number of years in the south, in the land of the well raised boy who knew to respect his mama and hold open a door for any lady. Well, let me just say the south has NOTHING on the groomsmen from this wedding. The best man carried my camera bag to my car and all of the groomsmen jumped for my stock of umbrellas as soon as a single drop of rain hit the ground.

This post could easily turn into a thesis if I discussed every item that I loved about this wedding; the locations, people, music, food! Someone seriously needs to tell me where the cupcakes were from - served with creamery ice cream they had my table begging for seconds.

Rebecca and Tom, thank you so much for allowing me to share in your wedding day!!!

Being a Tease (Part 2)

2010-05-23T14:53:00.000-07:00

And here are three from Trenten's first Birthday session - one super duper happy little boy!

Many many more to come....

Being a Tease (Part one)

2010-05-23T14:18:00.000-07:00

So I am going on vacation -ahhhhhh vacation! Sadly this throws off my usual blogging routine. Since I tend to be a people pleaser, I have decided that I will share 3 pictures from each of my two weekend sessions. And then I will post a full blog report once I am back home!

Rebbecca and Tom are up first...

Olivia & Eric's Wedding

2010-05-19T15:30:00.000-07:00

Olivia and Eric got married in Lewistown PA on a gorgeous and slightly windy day (ok -maybe slightly is an understatement). There is one thing that I could say over and over again, weather in PA is unpredictable! But come rain, or snow, or hurricane level winds; the photographs will still be taken, and they will be fun, and they will be gorgeous.

Wind withstanding, the day was perfect, and so was the wedding. Olivia and Eric couldn't help but grin every time they saw each other. They were both relaxed and ready to step out as man and wife in front of the world.

With life ahead of you and the world at your feet, I wish you all the best and every happiness!

Enjoy...

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice...

2010-05-13T15:26:00.000-07:00

... thats what little girls are made of.

I throughly enjoyed getting to take pictures of Jamie and little McKenzie on Wednesday. I love babies of all ages, but it is so much fun to work with babies when they start reacting to you - their smiles and expressions change moment by moment and you never know what you will capture. McKenzie was just about 14 weeks old and such a sweetheart.

I am often asked when the best time to take pictures of babies is - for newborn shots, I advise taking photos between 4-12 days old. After that it is best to wait until the baby is 3-4 months and can push up while on their stomach and lift their head. If you are lucky, even at this later age, the little one will eventually lose the battle with sleep and you can get some of the classic newborn-esque shots that we all love.

Here are just a few of my favorites...

First Wedding of 2010!

2010-05-11T15:26:00.000-07:00

Kerrie and Dan win the prize for getting to be my first wedding of 2010 - they also will hold a special place in my heart as my first wedding as a one job woman. I decided in the late winter that in order to best serve my clients and myself, I needed to leave my full time job and become solely a full time photographer.

But enough about me - back to the important thing - Kerrie and Dan's wedding!

The day was gorgeous and unseasonable warm - the bride glowed, the groom cried, and I enjoyed my first wedding brunch. Let me just say, if you are looking for ways to save some money, check out the Day's Inn brunch reception. There were even personal chefs to make 'made to order' omelets, this may be the best food I've had at a wedding EVER!

If this wedding is a portent of things to come - I think 2010 is going to be an amazing year!

Thank you for sharing your day with me, and enjoy just a small sampling of images to tide you over.

Over the river and through the woods....

2010-05-06T06:07:00.000-07:00

When Betsy and Jay told me that they wanted to do their engagement pictures out at their cabin, I was excited about the thought of getting away from my usual haunts and seeing a new location. Little did I know what I was in for. We met at a location that was mapquest-able and then I got into their 4x4 for a trek into the woods. I should have worn pants - and not flip flops, but somehow I navigated minor rock climbing and rough terrain without falling or dropping my camera! And the mosquitoes enjoyed a nice sweet snack.

Experiences like this indelibly seal couples in my memory, and Betsy and Jay will forever be in my memory with their infectious smiles and willingness to face life on the edge.

Enjoy this small sampling of our adventure:

I Love Spring

2010-04-28T13:06:00.000-07:00

Tulips, baby ducklings, bright green grass... , what's not to love? And of course threats of rain at any moment and temperatures that range from frigid to sweltering are tons of fun too. But, I really do love spring for all its newness and unexpected beauty.

Saturday, I headed out with Jessica and Michael to the Alumni Gardens on Penn State's campus. We had such a great time, and I think their happiness and excitement about their June wedding shows in every shot.

Just an appetizer....

Expecting Faith

2010-03-11T11:38:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, Amy and Tom welcomed me into their beautiful home to capture a fleeting moment of the history they are creating. Amy and I met at the Bridal Expo in January, she was showing her little sister the ropes of planning a wedding, and we hit it off immediately. A few days later she contacted me about doing a photo session for her. You see, Amy and Tom are expecting their first baby, a baby girl, a baby girl named Faith.

Now those who know me, know that I am a girly girl. So image my delight to walk into baby Faith's nursery to find it decked out in pink. Pink walls, pink rug, pink shoes, pink tutu onesie... ahhhhh, love. This darling girl is certainly going to be mommy and daddy's princess - and can I just predict that coming from these two parents she will be gorgeous outside and in.

Amy and Tom positively glowed as they spoke of their daughter-to-be, their love for one another and this new addition to their family poured out through the entire session.

This maternity session was so much fun and I can't wait to meet this sweet girl, but for the time being we are simply left expecting...

Valentine's Day

2010-02-18T12:45:00.000-08:00

Kerrie and Dan are my kind of couple - at the first sign of fresh snow laying on the ground, they contacted me and said "we need to do our engagement session - NOW!" Yep, these are indeed my kind of people. So out we traipsed into the snow filled tundra of the Millbrook Marsh - and it was breathtaking. A fresh blanket of white turned the area into a scene out of a fairy tale, and the flurries that fell throughout the afternoon simply added to the magic. Without fear, Kerrie and Dan plunged into the snow, traipsed across frozen streams, and even shed their protective shield of warm coats and mittens for a a few shots.

Beyond their fearlessness, Kerrie and Dan are simply smitten with one another. They exude happiness in every look, caress, and kiss. Even the brief snowball fight that broke out mid-session has to be one of the sweetest expressions of love I have seen. I can not wait to witness and capture each moment of their wedding in May!

Enjoy the teasers!

First Comes Love, Then Comes Marriage, Then...

2010-01-20T06:36:00.000-08:00

... well then it is time for maternity pictures of course!

Gail and Brian are excitedly anticipating the birth of their first child, and I must confess that I have been waiting for this session ever since Gail told me that they were expecting.

We had such a great time using the grand staircase of their Bellefonte apartment building and their apartment, once again proving that you can use any location to create gorgeous pictures. Creating photographs is always a fun journey for me, but when I am blessed with a couple who are willing to try absolutely anything I suggest and who laugh and glow in each others presence, that journey becomes an adventure.

I am so honored to have had the chance to document this stage of the miracle and I can't wait to meet baby!

It was impossible to pick favorites from this session, Enjoy!

And Two Become One...

2010-01-14T12:38:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, December 29th, I drove to Bellefonte for what I expected to be a very different wedding. Well, the wedding was different, but not at all in the ways I expected.

Lauren and Mike chose to have a small wedding at the Bellefonte courthouse with a dinner reception following at the Gamble Mill. I ignorantly feared that since this wedding wasn't the traditional wedding I attend year round that I wouldn't have the same emotional connection that I normally have to the couple and the event. I couldn't have been more wrong.

This small gathering of only family and the closest friends welcomed me into the fold the moment I walked in the door. By the time Lauren stepped into her dress, I had tears pricking the corners of my eyes, and when the Judge pronounced them Husband and Wife in her small chambers there was not a dry eye in the room. This was the joining of not only two individuals, but two families who have pledged themselves to encourage and support this new couple as they walk the road of married life.

There were laughter, tears, and hugs abounding - leaving an impression on me that will not easily or quickly be forgotten.

These are just a few of my favorites from the night:

Generations

2010-01-07T12:54:00.000-08:00

The holidays are wonderful in that they are one of the few times a year where we make a point to see family. Where all the generations trek over the river and through the woods to arrive at grandma's house, or Auntie Em's, or Uncle Bernie's.... well, maybe not. But still, holidays are one of the few times where multiple generations find themselves in one place at one time - and when that happens; it is time, dear readers, to take a photo.

"But Suzanne... aren't you a wedding photographer???"

Yes, dear reader, I am. I am a wedding photographer who also takes family photos, maternity photos, baby photos, etc... You'd be amazed at what locations can work for a variety of images - even in the middle of winter. Anything from your own living room (or that or a friend with a bigger living room), to a nice restaurant (just get permission first), to the location that the Andersons chose - a conference room at the Village. With a little bit of prior planning and an ounce of ingenuity; family photos that preserve the generations before they are gone will become something you DO, rather than something you wish you had done.

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-24T12:42:00.000-08:00

Denielle and I met this summer when she was a bridesmaid in Mandy's wedding. We hit it off immediately and I was so happy to be contacted a few months later to photograph her own wedding. I love weddings; big, small, extravagant, simple, it doesn't matter - I love them all. This wedding was special and will stand out in my memory forever, not because of the huge snowstorm that I had to drive through to make it to Liberty, and not because I got terribly turned around on the dark snowy streets when heading to the reception, but instead because of the warmth and love that flowed out of Denielle, John, and their families. This was a wedding where I felt like I was with family, where laughter flowed easily, and true emotions filled my view finder every time I lifted my lens.

Denielle & John, I am so blessed to have met you!

Merry Christmas - and a little gift from me to you:

Best Christmas Present EVER!

2009-12-10T09:13:00.000-08:00

Stumped as to what to get for Mom and Dad this year for Christmas? Take a tip from Olivia and her siblings and give them the best gift ever - YOU! Seriously, how long has it been since mom had a nice family portrait taken, or a fun personality filled picture of all of her kids together, or even a beautiful head shot of you by yourself? Time is running out to get these done before Christmas, but a gift certificate can be just as nice.

On to the actual session - We had a great time trying not to freeze our fingers off on Sunday afternoon. Choosing a local park allowed a variety of backdrops without the need to travel very far. I can't wait to work with Olivia and her family again next year when she gets married to that handsome tall guy.

Enjoy the tip of the iceberg....

Thanksgiving - Family Style

2009-12-03T11:43:00.000-08:00

A few months ago I was contacted by Erin about taking a family picture as a surprise for her mother. After spending some time talking I realized that this family was anything but typical. First, Erin is on of 9, yes I said 9, children. Her mother is gorgeous and deserves a medal of honor, or valor, or both! Erin explained to me that is has been 10 years since the family last had a portrait taken. We decided to include mom in the session rather than lose this rare opportunity to have an image of the entire family. The session took place at the family's picturesque mountain home.

It was such a blessing to be able to spend the afternoon with this very large, very welcoming family; and to be reminded how thankful I am for my own.

Enjoy the teasers...

Family Fun

2009-11-23T06:38:00.000-08:00

April, a fellow photographer, contacted me when she realized that getting her 3 year old son to sit and smile for a family picture this year would not happen without help. In I stepped with my bag of silly faces, strange noises, and love for throwing pine cones to capture the attention of this very energetic boy.

We had a great time at Talleyrand Park - and due to the nature children, kept the session short and sweet. I always strive when working with small children to keep the session fun; to play, to let them get to know me, and to remember that they can only last so long.

It was such a pleasure for me to capture the joy and love in this family!

Fall - In November?

2009-11-21T13:54:00.000-08:00

Thats right - to all those nay-sayers out there, I put forward the following evidence that fall can last longer than two weeks in central PA. In fact Fall can continue even after a freakishly early snow storm in October, Fall may even hold on to its last remnants of colorful beauty all the way to Turkey Day.

And look, look they don't even have coats on! (we wont mention the few bouts of shivering, but hey anything for the beauty of a picture)

Amanda and Joey are one of those great couples that just keep you laughing, keep you on your toes, and keep reminding you why you chose a job that forces you to leave your nice warm bed early on a Saturday morning to face the freezi...ummm, errrr... cool beauty of Fall.

Enjoy the teasers - I can't wait for your wedding next year!

We Are- En Gaged!

2009-11-21T13:34:00.000-08:00

Fall in State College means football, and football means rivalries. You can't be a Penn State fan without knowing the sinister rivalry between the Nittany Lions and the Ohio State Buckeyes. So what happens when you put a photographer who loves to dress in her signature colors (red and black) in the middle of a campus filled with blue and white? Well, luckily for me, just great pictures.

Megan and Phil chose to return to the campus where they met and got engaged for their engagement session. They were wise enough to wear the correct colors for the day and I think provided me some protection for my foolish fashion choices. I had such a great time enjoying the gorgeous morning with this fun loving couple!

Enjoy...

Halloween

2009-11-14T15:07:00.000-08:00

When Andrea and John contacted me about their Halloween wedding, I must admit I was slightly disappointed when they informed me that there would be no 'all hallows eve theme'. No costumes, no spooky decorations, no 'Thriller'. Sigh, my theatre background cried just one solitary tear. But then we started talking, then I started listening, then I started hearing. This would be a wedding of elegant timeless romance, a wedding with a jaw dropping natural fall backdrop, a wedding that celebrated the undying love of two individuals that wanted to live the rest of their lives as husband and wife. Forget Halloween themes, this was the wedding I wanted to be a part of.

And the wedding lived up to and surpassed every expectation I had. Set at Eisenhower Chapel and the Atherton Hotel, not even the wind and rain could dampen the spirit of the day.

Enjoy a few teasers...

I see trees of green and skies of Blue...

2009-11-12T06:51:00.000-08:00

Carly&Lance and I had a great time taking engagement photos on her grandfather's land on November 1st. After a week of grey drizzle, Sunday burst forth to honor its name. The air was warm, the sky was blue, and there literally was not a cloud in the sky (well maybe one puffy white cloud). Ahhh, the joys of the ever changing PA forecast. Carly and Lance will be getting married next year but wanted to take advantage of the fall weather to get images to use for their 'Save the Date' cards.

Enjoy the small glimpse...

Stormy Weather

2009-10-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

Well the skies may have looked foreboding, but the rain stayed at bay allowing Ashley and Phil a beautiful fall wedding that they will remember forever. This past Saturday I traveled, umbrellas in hand, to Altoona to be a part of Ashley and Phil's beautiful wedding day. Ashley stayed in high spirits despite peals of thunder, quick sand mud, and tardy limos. The ceremony was heartfelt and the reception was filled with smiling faces. This couple will be surrounded by friends and family that will help ensure that their marriage will stand strong despite any storms that may come and go in the future.

I wish you all the best! Enjoy Hawaii and these teasers...

Fall in Love

2009-10-20T13:10:00.000-07:00

Rebecca and Tom took a gamble when they decided not to reschedule their engagement session for Sunday, we scheduled this session to capture the peak color of fall in central PA. The snow started falling on Thursday and on Saturday it showed no signs of stopping. E-mails flew back and forth, but we decided to keep to the plan and hope that the sun would reappear. Well, the gamble paid off - by the afternoon the white cloud that had blanketed State College lifted to reveal FALL in all her colorful glory.

We had such a great time using the natural beauty of the PSU campus - we climbed trees, threw leaves, and laughed alot. I can't wait for their wedding next year!

Enjoy the teasers...

Dancing the Night Away

2009-10-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

Jessica and Kyle were married in Dauphin on Saturday surrounded by family, friends, and enough bugs to make life for a photographer just a little fun - you try getting 12 wriggling, giggling, bug slapping people to pose for a picture. Luckily, this was the type of group who will laugh at anything, try anything, and have fun with anything. This attitude was made abundantly clear in the packed dance floor where no one was afraid to bust a move. I hated leaving the party at the end of the night - thank you Jessica and Kyle for letting me share in the fun!

The Peter Allen House is a gorgeous historic location with romantic charm and some of the most picturesque natural backdrops imaginable - if you are getting married there don't hesitate to give me a call.

PS- a huge thank you to my assistant April who made the day flow seamlessly!

And on to the pictures...

Trash that dress!

2009-10-07T09:08:00.000-07:00

I often get the look of horror when brides (and their mothers) look at my pricing list and see the option for a "Trash the Dress" session. For those of you who missed the Today Show this morning or who have not heard of this new trend, let me explain. A "Trash the Dress" session (aka TTD), is a post wedding session for the bride, or bride and groom, where new locations and poses can be used that no girl would ever consider prior to showing off her spotless gown at the wedding. The actual 'trashing' of the dress can be as minor or extravagant as the bride wants and the experience is a great chance to put that dress on one more time and really show it off.

Danielle didn't get the bridal portraits that she dreamed of from her wedding a year ago, so she contacted me to do a TTD session. We had a great time exploring my favorite nooks and crannies of down town along with the great rustic elements of Central PA.

It was so hard to narrow it down to just a few teasers!

Recipe to kill a duck

2009-09-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

Take two adorable dogs, combine with two even more adorable boys, add a pinch of mom and what do you get? One PSU duck that will forever be scarred by the memory of almost being puppy chow. Wednesday I had the extreme pleasure of taking family photos at the Alumni Gardens. The weather was beautiful and the family a treat to work with. It has been a while since my last family photo session, but I think my roots are still strong.

Sealed with a kiss

2009-09-15T07:22:00.000-07:00

Lindsay and I have gotten to know each other well over the past few months. Through the engagement session to her secret Boudoir session and all the e-mails in between we built a friendship that I hope will last well beyond the wedding album design.

Lindsay and Justin got married in McVeytown on a warm, sunny day surrounded by family and friends. Their ceremony was heartfelt and sealed with a dramatic kiss - those military men really know how to put on a show!

I hope you enjoy the teasers as much as I enjoyed the wedding!