Rhonda Duron Photography: The Blog

[ OH HAPPY DAY!!! ]

2009-06-26T10:14:00.003-05:00

This is my last post here. I have a BRAND NEW BLOG and it's just too cool for words, so you have to go HERE to see it in all it's glory.

Please update your Google reader or other feeds to include the new blog. Thanks!

[ Us ] Allen, Texas Children's Photographer

2009-06-11T16:40:00.012-05:00

I thought I would post something a little different this week. For my Mother's Day gift, I told my husband that I wanted him to take a photo of my son and me. I found the spot, handed over the camera for once, adjusted the settings and let him have control. I even had THE image in my mind and I knew exactly what I wanted.

This is what my husband took:

and I love it.

At some point in your child's life, they'll be searching for a photo of you and them that they feel a connection with. It may be a planned one like mine-or candid. Doesn't really matter. Just make a point to take one now and again. Hair down or up, smiling or not, overweight or not. Just take some together- each child with mom, each child with dad- not just a big family group shot. One day they'll be so happy you took the time, handed the camera over, makeup or not, hair fixed or not, posed or not.

I post this because I feel sad when the majority of parents don't want to be photographed with their children because they are not comfortable for one reason or another. I would love a childhood photo of just me and my mother like this- or even something candid and fun of just us. She was always the one taking the photos in our family. Nevertheless, time goes by and you wait to lose that weight, get your haircut or buy the outfits for the session and it just doesn't happen. When I'm at a session, I always stress the importance of taking just a couple at the end with the child. They will love it someday.

It doesn't have to be perfect at all.

[ Ready ] Allen Child Photography I Texas

2009-06-06T22:16:00.004-05:00

I worked hard last week and got all of the Block Party Portraits finished up a week early! I delivered those today along with a fun 20x20 collage of adorable kids from the event, so stop by and see it at Java & Gelati there at Main/Allen Heights where the party was located (get yourself a yummy treat while you are there). I had a tasty blended ice vanilla mocha today and it really hit the spot on a hot day!

I'm taking a little break this week getting several things accomplished here on the home front in the form of organizing my office and such. Funny how things can get out of hand so quickly!

It's also time to start thinking of Holiday portraits, so I'll be lining those things up here very soon and taking a waiting list for the Fall. I'll update that here next month or so when I finish up the details.

Since it's no fun to post without a photo, here's a couple of favs from Miss S.

... til next time :)

[ THE SHOPPES AT ALLEN HEIGHTS BLOCK PARTY ] Reminder for Tomorrow!!

2009-05-29T08:05:00.002-05:00

Just a reminder about the block party tomorrow. I will be there from 4-6pm doing complimentary children's portraits, so bring them by for a petite casual session, so dress them appropriately (no character shirts, stripes, etc.- think simple!). One complimentary desk print of each child will ready to pick up at Java & Gelati in about 2 weeks and any orders will be nicely discounted.

The location is at the southwest corner of Main @ Allen Heights in the Shoppes at Allen Heights shopping center where Java & Gelati is.

The block party lasts between 12noon- 10pm, so let your friends and family know to stop by for some great samples, art displays, my photography table, food, race car, face painting, bounce house and more. I'll be taking some event photos during the day some as well. It's going to be fun and it's a great way to get to know some of the area businesses over that way as well as get a little sample of my work between 4-6pm.

Hope you see you there!

[ Welcome Baby Serena ] DFW, Addison TX Newborn Baby Photography

2009-05-28T22:55:00.004-05:00

This sweet angel is getting used to me and the camera. You may remember her mama from a few weeks back and baby Serena graced their world two weeks later. I've had two sessions so far with her and I'm enjoying every bit of her. Her parents are over the moon in love with every breath she takes.

Enjoy, for now. I'm still not through with her yet though :)

[ Meet Baby Sophia ] Richardson, Allen TX Newborn Baby Photographer

2009-05-17T23:10:00.008-05:00

One word: Lips. Two words: nose dots. Those combined make me a sucker for newborns. This baby had the most beautiful lips ever... perfection.

Sophia. A beautiful, beautiful girl who delighted me with endless smiles. I could not get enough of her when she slept, so I was happy that her parents didn't run me out of their home after so long. It finally stopped raining, so we went outside for a bit and the beautiful backyard was a perfect setting for those! It was so difficult to choose some favs for the blog, but I just can't spoil them all :)

Enjoy J & T, it was a pleasure spending the day with your little family of three. I have the best job ever! Have I said that before?

[ HAPPY FRIDAY ] Dallas, Plano, Frisco Child Photographer

2009-05-15T17:20:00.004-05:00

Awesome News!! I will be providing complimentary children's portraiture at the Shoppes at Allen Heights Block Party on Saturday May 30th. That is at the SW corner of Main @ Allen Heights in Allen. I will be doing petite portraits from 4-6pm, first come first serve (kids only) and I'll take several photos of each child individually.

The block party is from 12noon-10pm and there will be lots of free samples and booths from from various vendors and artists (I'll have a table with product samples too all day). There will be a bounce house and a racecar for the kids to oogle over too! About 2 weeks after the event, I will deliver ONE FREE beautifully bordered linen desk portrait of each child to Java & Gelati (they are sponsoring me at the event). Other images will be available to view by request and orders will be nicely discounted!!

This is a great way to get a little sample of what I have to offer if you've never worked with me before. I don't have all the details worked out yet since I've never offered this before, but we'll do it casually and have a good time :) Let your friends know and I hope to see you there.

Lastly, my new fabulous tote bag made by Caroline at Pink Lemonade Bags who did an amazzzzing job. She designs and makes these beautiful totes, diaper bags and more right here in Allen and has her online store with a huge variety of bags ready to ship. The quality is perfect and my tote is the perfect size for my needs (I had it on all day yesterday at the Dallas World Aquarium) and I love the pockets in side to hold my things. I even had my logo embroidered on it.

Thank you Caroline. I LOVE it and I know my readers will too !!! :D

[ Little Red Shoes ] Allen, TX Children's Photographer

2009-05-15T16:51:00.003-05:00

I spent the morning with Little Miss I today. A very active 2 year old who loves her red shoes and was so curious about everything she saw. It was so much fun chasing her around and getting a wide variety of shots. She would tease me and stand still for half a second and then move on verrry fast as a typical toddler does. I got hugs in the end and all the chasing was well worth it :) Enjoy the peek B!

(told ya she was curious. Love this one!)

[ Waiting ] Plano, Allen, Frisco Texas Maternity Photographer

2009-05-03T12:02:00.006-05:00

This glowing mom-to-be is my best friend who is due to have her first baby in less than 3 weeks. It's a girl and she'll grace our world surrounded by eager new parents and a seriously anticipating new grandmother (who just finished painting a beautiful mural in the nursery). This baby will be heavily photographed by me when she arrives and I can't wait to try so many new things out including some lifestyle and environmental images and share here. By the way, this was my first time shooting a maternity session and I so enjoyed it! :)

B~ I hope you feel as beautiful as you are in these photos. You're going to be a great mom and I can't wait to meet little S.

[ BOY OH BOY ] PLANO, DFW CHILDREN'S PHOTOGRAPHER

2009-04-23T09:19:00.004-05:00

Meet T. He's an energetic, wandering, Wondering, snaggle-toothed eight year old. I'm so happy I could squeeze in this session to capture this once-in-a-lifetime smile. He was such a pleasure to get to know and run with and he just had the best disposition for such a sweet young man. Gotta love that!!

Hope you enjoy the peek. I think the last one is a favorite of mine. It really makes you wonder what he's daydreaming about...

[ Welcome to this World ] Plano, TX Newborn Photography

2009-04-21T12:02:00.004-05:00

This little man couldn't wait to greet the world and blessed his family two months early. After several weeks in the nicu, he's finally home and doing fantastic! He slept some of the time but he insisted on being held close to his proud parents. After all that time away, I don't blame him one. little. bit.

M and B- enjoy your beautiful son and I hope this holds you over. Thanks again for the yummy pizza during our extended time together :)

(Oh My Blog!) Allen Texas Newborn & Children's Photographer

2009-04-13T18:50:00.004-05:00

I know I've not even said a Peep (some Easter pun for ya) in weeks and I apologize. I was sick for about 2.5 weeks with a nasty lingering respiratory and sinus infection and I felt like death warmed up at times. I started feeling better.. then came the coughing. Oh, the cough, cough, cough... and I thought my ribs were on fire! Some of the clients that called me were greeted with a hoarse sounding creature that spoke every-other-syllable, then I just let voicemail get the rest when I had almost no voice left :) I'm just about better now and ready for some (portrait) action! I've got several newborns due- or coming home soon and other sessions as well. I still have 1 Newborn campaign spot open, so look me up if you are due in the next few weeks- or know of anyone who is, just let them know to email me asap.

I'd post an Easter photo from our one-man egg hunt, but they're still in the camera, so I'll get one up this week. My son is still holding on to a couple of eggs that my husband and I dyed and he hugs and kisses it when we 'let' it out of the fridge. Oh, the toddler fun. At least he's stopped talking about Halloween and punkins and scar-ry goats. Finally... It's April.

[ Newborn Campaign ] DFW Newborn Photography

2009-03-21T09:21:00.015-05:00

I am in search of newborns that will be born in April or May. I had several fine art and new ideas to try out and need a few (very) patient and willing parents with a Spring bebe coming. I have some specific needs, so if you fit, please let me know asap.

You will get:

-a complimentary 2-3 hour session

-a set of 24 custom birth announcements

-no obligation to purchase

-web gallery for sharing

Here are the specifics:

Casting #1

- newborns of various ethnicities; under 2 weeks old

- twins are a plus

- sessions are geared toward specific images (others if time allows)

Casting #2

- newborn under 2 weeks + both parents

- both parents need to be fit and comfortable with their body; tattoos are fine on dad

- session is geared mainly for simplistic artful skin to skin images with parents holding baby (not nudes)

Casting #3

- newborn with parents for a black and white photojournalistic session (un-posed, family interaction)

- need a spacious modern home with lots of natural light and nice furnishings + finished nursery

Sessions will take place at your home (within 30 miles of Allen) and a signed release is required. Please use the email link or call to inquire at 214-536-6889. If you or anyone you know (or see) is expecting soon, please have them contact me asap. This is a limited offer and I only need a few spots!

{ A Fabulous Day } Allen, TX Photography

2009-03-10T15:27:00.009-05:00

I had the pleasure of meeting some fabulous DFW photographers at a meet we had yesterday. They brought the kids and a model + baby that we photographed. This was my first time at this location and what a feast it was for my eyes!

Major kudos to all these willing subjects that posed, played and smiled for about 90 minutes for us. I had a great time and it was facinating to work along side some of the local talent that I have so much respect for.

I love this one! A tender newborn and the old beat up train. The photographer mom was right there- don't worry!

Can you believe this was my very first high school senior to photograph? What a treat it was to not have to bribe her with a lolli pop in the end :D I may have to find more Seniors to work with because these are so much fun. I loved her shoes and boots- can you tell?

[ SPRING INTO SUMMER ] Plano, Allen, Frisco Photographer

2009-03-03T08:13:00.017-06:00

(offer is expired and no longer valid)

I thought of a great special offer for those of you who love to plan ahead like I do, so here you go:

- Book your Spring or early Summer session by March 31st and you get half off the Session Fee. Offer valid for sessions held between 3/8 and 7/31/09((EXPIRED)).

- Get a friend to book too and you will both receive a complimentary 5x10 desk storyboard.

That's it. A simple idea for you to start planning ahead for that milestone, birthday, newborn or for my favorite kinds of sessions, just because they grow so fast! Email me at the CONTACT link up top to check for availablity and please have a date in mind.

The $75 Session fee (plus tax) is due within 7 days of booking to reserve your space. Not to be combined with other offers/discounts and not valid on mini-sessions. Limit one storyboard per client.

Until next time

Rhonda :)

[ This and That ] Allen Texas, DFW Child Photography

2009-03-01T14:31:00.004-06:00

I didn't realize it's been an entire month since I posted. SORRY!! I've been enjoying peace and quiet, well- as peaceful and quiet as it gets with a 2 1/2 year old around :D I've been doing other projects and streamlining my ordering system and it's quiet time consuming, but it's worth it when you see it.

Many of you may have seen my newborn ad on Facebook last week and it got a lot of attention and I am happy with that. The responders were several months out, so if you know of an impending birth in March or April, send them my way for a special deal! I adore photographing newborns and there is so much I want to attempt, I just need the open and willing parents. I may need a very specific Casting Call again.... hmmmm......

Well, I hate posting without a photo, so here are 2 new 16x20 Wall portraits I updated at Java & Gelati here in Allen (corner of Main @ Allen Heights next to the farmers market). Enjoy until next time!!

[ Baby Bliss ] Frisco, Texas Newborn Photographer

2009-01-27T19:01:00.003-06:00

This little bundle was pure sweetness. Once he fell asleep he let me wrap and fold him to no end! I adore those squishy new lips and he gave us a few mommy-melting grins. After spending hours with him, baby fever was sure to come!

[ Beautiful Things ] Frisco, Plano, Allen Newborn Photography

2009-01-22T16:00:00.011-06:00

{ THE KEEPSAKE ALBUM }

These 5x5 albums are my newest product addiction. I have a steady stream of samples coming in and I can't seem to stop ordering them! Rarely do I find a product that I am so crazy about... With several photo borders to choose from, the albums are designed this way to eliminate the need to rotate the album- or your head- because of the image format. Plus, square crops on every image can be boring, so this is a perfect alternative in a cute little proof-style album.

By the way, this hand-made beauty is currently offered in my Digital Keepsake Collection at an enormous discount. If you havn't seen my new Products brochure on the website- this collection includes all of your full-res digital images on CD, 5x7 prints of each image, plus this Keepsake Album. It is an introductory offer too :)

Here's one of the samples I currently have. It's appropriately called Platinum Blonde.

Each album is custom made and there are SO many cover options available. Smooth suedes, eco-friendly faux leather and upscale silk brocades to name a few. There truly is something for everyone and it's good to stand out from the usual black leather albums offered- have some ALBUM PERSONALITY already! The animal friendly faux leathers are indescribably soft and supple. I get lots of oooh's and ahhhh's on those.

Here's the page and binding detail. These are thick sturdy white pages and the 5x5 photos are hand mounted. Black are pages also available.

Here's a sample page spread with color photos, just for fun!

{ MUSEUM MATTED GIFT PORTRAITS }

What could be a more perfect gift than a beautifully matted portrait? Your favorite image is placed behind a 6-ply archival museum mat and presented with a chartreuse satin ribbon.

This charming gift can easily be slipped into a modern frame or placed on an easel for an elegant display.

Shown is the 5x5 portrait in an 8x8 mat. Also available is a 5x7 portrait in an 8x10 mat. (Images can be carefully removed from the mat)

[ A Time to Reflect ] DFW Children's Photographer

2009-01-14T17:04:00.013-06:00

Finally, my first post of the 2009! It had to wait until I did a long overdue Blog makeover (among other things) and I love the new look and I hope you all do as well. If you are getting this update through the email subscription, then you won't see the new colors and pretties unless you go to the actual blog :) Also, I will be resuming portrait sessions later this month and it will be great to meet my little Winter clients very soon.

These were from Christmas Day. After countless hours of playing with his new train set, Hotwheels and a zillion other new toys, Camden went to his quiet room to sit in his rocker and snuggle with his old pals.

Happy December in Allen, Texas

2008-12-08T17:57:00.008-06:00

I know I've have been MIA on the blog lately. The holiday rush is just about over and I am taking a break from sessions for the month of December to get things ready for 2009. So many exciting changes to come, like new products and the loooong awaited full resolution digital collections- yes, finally! I'll be adding a new look too, so check back soon for updates!

Until then, stay warm and cozy with those you love :)

[ The M. Family ] Wylie, Texas Photography

2008-11-24T07:27:00.016-06:00

{ YES, FINALLY LARGER PHOTOS!!! }

Here's a sneak peek from my Saturday session. It was very cold and they were constantly removing their coats. This family really stuck it out though and I am so happy- I'm loving this location more and more!

These two brothers have dreamy gorgeous eyes, don't you think? They were so pepped on hot cocoa and really kept me moving. I really enjoy this age and I had a great time!

[ A Tot Named Grace ] Allen, TX Children's Photographer

2008-11-13T06:05:00.004-06:00

This is my adorable niece who I spent some quality time with over the weekend. She and I snuck away for a bit and took a stroll and found this great spot. Her birthday is next month and she is already ALL of two.

She looks exactly like my brother, well, except for the piggy tails.

[ The D Family ] Allen, TX Infant Photography

2008-11-13T05:55:00.004-06:00

I'm behind on my blog, so just trying to do some catching up this morning (:

This family really hung in there with me over the weekend while I experimented at a new location. I got tons of variety and I'm really loving this place. Thanks again for your patience K & J.

And one of Baby R. in her adorable hat. How beautiful is she and her big blue peepers?

[ All Mine ] Allen Silly Boy Photographer

2008-11-07T08:44:00.007-06:00

Just because...

[ The G. Family ] Allen, TX Family Photographer

2008-10-28T12:13:00.005-05:00

This family drove quite a distance to have their session with me this weekend and that always thrills me. I enjoyed the hours that we spent together and dad sure kept me laughing the entire time! I love how we tried out a few new things at this Lifestyle session. More goods to come mom & dad! Enjoy a few for now.

Happy 3rd Birthday today Miss J!!

If you can't see what book this is- it's WAR & PEACE. She read it to us... out loud.

... and remember- she's just turning three today! (((Wow))) Can you tell I am still amazed?

[Holding out for Winter] Allen Baby Photographer

2008-10-22T14:06:00.003-05:00

I spent some time at Bethany Lakes Park on Saturday with little M. to capture a few more pictures of just her. It was very chilly so she was dressed warmer than I was. How adorably cute is she in this hat? I really need to start a baby hat collection. If I only knew how to knit- but who has time?

2008 Holiday Card Designs

2008-10-14T13:11:00.011-05:00

As promised, here are a few of the 18 holiday card desings that I am offering this year. These show only the front of the press-printed card, but the backs are just as beautiful and have the same background designs (photos on front only). The text may be personalized on both sides and they come in sets of 25.

To see the rest of the designs, please click here.

{The M. Family} Sneak Peek

2008-10-12T16:00:00.008-05:00

This curious six month old is just about ready to crawl away and explore her big world. I so enjoyed this family session yesterday. They were so fun loving, easy going- and patient! It was a pleasure seeing them interact so naturally and Baby M. knows just how to makes mom & dad's eyes shine a little brighter.

2008 Holiday Mini Sessions

2008-10-06T15:36:00.046-05:00

These mini sessions are designed for clients who want beautiful Holiday greeting cards and a small portrait order for gift giving at a discounted rate. This is also ideal for new clients who only need a short custom portraiture experience at an affordable rate this season without the need for a full 1-2 hour session. To maintain a high level of service for all clients, I am only booking a limited number of these sessions.

2008 HOLIDAY MINI SESSIONS: $250

- a 20-25 minute outdoor session in Allen

- up to 4 family members

- 8-12 images to choose from

- (50) press-printed Holiday cards

- (1) 8x10 Desk Portrait

- 20% off an a la carte prices for this session

(Get a friend to book a session also and you'll both get a free 5x7)

DATES & TIMES AVAILABLE:

***Sat. Oct 18th not available***

**Sat. Nov 1st - no longer available**

(Edited on 10/28/08)

With the above dates no longer available and the mini-session still being requested, read on.

If you are flexible with times, I can accommodate a few more private mini-sessions held in the city of Allen. Email me for date inquiries. Thanks you for all your emails and fan mail too :)

Click Holiday Cards (to limit download time, only the front is shown, but the backs are just as lovely and have the same design elements.

(*Due to Daylight Savings Time, the Nov 8th times will need to be adjusted if needed)

Please email me asap to book or inquire about these sessions.

[Autumn Beauty] Allen, Texas Children's Photography

2008-10-06T12:14:00.011-05:00

I'm back from my trip and wanted to share a few images from a session I did while in North Carolina. The Fall colors and foliage are not quite this dramatic in Texas yet! Hopefully soon though!

Out of Town...

2008-09-13T15:17:00.009-05:00

I will be out of town from 9/17 through 10/3 and will have limited access to email and cell phone range. I will be returning calls and emails the following weekend of 10/4.

I can't Blog without a posting a photo, so here is one you might like. I knew the moment that I saw this image a couple of weeks ago that I had to have it for my new black and white gallery wrap sample. Many of you will see it in the weeks to come at your sessions and you'll see how beautiful it is up close.

I'll have more goodies to show off next month as I get ready for the 2008 holiday season. I do have a few openings left for October & November, so don't wait to book your session for holiday photos!

(Holiday print orders must be placed by Nov 30th for Christmas delivery.)

Lullaby and Good Night...

2008-08-26T06:39:00.005-05:00

Doesn't she look peaceful? At two weeks old, she is welcomed by two proud and very helpful older sisters M & E. Enjoy the sneak peek!

Meet Newborn J: 7 Days Old

2008-08-11T08:03:00.010-05:00

One of my favorites from yesterdays session. The long awaited sleepy shots were so peaceful, but he didn't sleep for long- too much to see in this big new world! I'll try to post more a little later for you Mom & Dad. Enjoy your beautiful new son!

OK, one wide-eyed photo. Say it with me... Amazing-Head-Control!!!! He held it for a good 5 or 6 seconds before he wore out. Quite impressive for a 7 day old I think :)

On the Move: Again and Again...

2008-08-09T22:24:00.004-05:00

Doesn't this little guy have the happiest smile?? His mom kept singing songs throughout the session and he just had these ear to ear grins :) I just love the genuine personality of toddlers and he's about to turn one- Happy Birthday S!!!

OK- one more that just says... WELCOME!

Sneak Peek: Three times as Nice

2008-08-03T22:20:00.006-05:00

I had the pleasure of photographing these 3 lovely sisters today. The older two were just as silly as they could possible be and they gave me a wide variety of great expressions- and some yawns too (wink-wink).

Enjoy the peek for now...Oh- and a BIG thanks to Dad for moving that pool table out of the way for me (:

VOTED ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO LIVE: ALLEN, TEXAS

2008-07-30T14:48:00.015-05:00

I was so excited this week when Allen was chosen in the top 20 of Money Magazine's list of Best Places to Live: America's Best Small Cities. At #20 on the list, Allen is a great city with so much to offer and I could not be happier being a resident here. It's full of great families, top-performing schools, kids activities, tons of eco-friendly new development and yet it still maintains the small town charm that won me over 4 years ago when my husband and I moved here from Dallas.

I just wanted to share this exciting news with you all and brag about what a great little city I live in! Until next time... GO EAGLES!!!

Come By and See My Work!!

2008-07-29T14:05:00.006-05:00

I am thrilled to be showing off a new wall display of some recent client portraits. It's at JAVA & GELATI at 1206 E. Main (Main @ Allen Heights) here in Allen. You should go by and check it out and while you are there, have a scoop of one of the many flavors of gelato that they offer. I recently had my first gelato experience and I was hooked from the first taste of the Dutch Chocolate (I ate it too fast, or I'd show a photo!). They also make some awesome coffee drinks too, so if you're miserable in this Texas heat or need a tasty java boost- they have it all! Also, while you are waiting on your cup of creamy heaven to be made, don't forget to check out all the stunning artwork created by several local artists!

Here's one of the flavors I had the other day... spumoni. Don't look if you are dieting :)

THE BIG TWO

2008-07-14T07:50:00.005-05:00

Has it really been two years already? You truly never know how fast time flys by until you have a child. It really seems like Camden was just a baby learning to crawl and now he's got a tricycle?

None the less, his birthday is this week and I just wanted to share a portrait of him on his new pride and joy. Do you think it's the trike or the Whiry pop? (:

....ok- so I can't mislead my loyal blog readers. That beautiful & calm child is not really my son at all.

This is my son....

Happy Birthday Baby! I'm so lucky to be your mom. I love you!

Sneak Peek: The Lucky Friend

2008-06-30T11:28:00.007-05:00

Meet Baby A. Her mom was given the 'Friend' mini-session by the Blog Contest winner. This bright-eyed beauty kept me entertained with her new vocals! I told mom that she would be the perfect voice-over for baby commercials :)

Enjoy the sneek peek Mom & Dad (oh and those two gorgeous sisters too)...

Isn't She Lovely?

2008-06-30T08:56:00.002-05:00

Miss C was the winner of The Little Details blog contest recently. She was so very curious about me and the camera and she even gave me the 'eyebrow' look a few times. She did her best not to topple over sitting in 'tripod' position waiting for her close-ups :) Here's a sneek peek for you mom & dad. Enjoy this one for now...

Session Sneak Peek

2008-06-18T16:46:00.004-05:00

It's not often that I do family sessions- it's usually just the children they want photographed. This was more of a 'Lifestyle' session with fewer posed shots. I really enjoyed this family and the beautiful interaction that they shared. This four year old sure kept me on my toes- especially in this heat. *Whew!* It was great to work with you! Enjoy.

a couple of my favs

ok- one posed for the 15 year old!

The Little Details Contest: We Have a Winner!!!

2008-06-08T18:03:00.009-05:00

...and HERE she is:

Entry E has been voted to have the cutest Little Details!!! It could have gone either way there for a while with Entry N, but Entry E. sitting in her bumbo seat won the votes. Congratulations to the winner and please contact me soon to schedule yours and your friends mini-sessions.

Thank you all for entering your beautiful children in the contest. I enjoyed talking to many of you through email and I hope you enjoyed the contest! Also a big Thank You to all the friends & families for the 2,367 votes over the past 6 days. And Finally... a BIG BIG Thank You to Rebecca for posting my Blog Contest on her own blog and helping bring in some of the entries that way- you ROCK!!

It's been fun and exciting and I hope to do another Blog only contest soon! Please come back and visit here for news, specials and to check out the Sneak Peeks of all the adorable children that I get to photograph. Thanks again!

EDITED: OK, for the last hour since the contest ended, I have been looking at all the other adorable Little Details of the other kids that were entered and I'm just so sad to see you all go empty handed. I'm going to offer a CONSOLATION GIFT to all of those that entered your children in this Blog Contest- as well as anyone who supported you and voted in the contest:

**For anyone who would like to book a custom portrait session with me, I will give discount $25 off your session fee and a give you a free 5x7 desk portrait (a $55 value). Just mention this gift offer when you book and I will validate your discount. This gift offer will expire July 31st, so you must book the session before then. Thank you all again for entering your kids or for voting for them!

Sneak Peek: Miss A.

2008-06-02T16:45:00.002-05:00

Here's a peek for Miss A's mom and dad. She was quite the little model for me during our time. No problem getting smiles from this beauty! I'll post more of baby brother soon! I couldn't wait to share these with you. Enjoy mom and dad!

~R.

LET THE VOTING BEGIN!!!

2008-06-02T10:01:00.009-05:00

...FOR THE LITTLE DETAILS BLOG CONTEST

The Poll is in the right sidebar here, so voting may now begin. Only one vote is allowed per person and the poll will end at 6:00pm on Sunday June 8, 2008. Good luck to everyone and don't forget to spread the word!

Edit to add more info 06-02-08 5:30pm: My referral program works for current clients (i.e. who have had a session in the past) who refer new business my way. Clients are credited an 8x10 for each referral who books and their credit is valid when the new referred client completes their session. Just wanted to clarify that since there are so many new to the Blog! New clients get this referral info in the packet that I send out after they book- so now the 'world' knows :)

Update- WEBSITE & EMAIL ARE WORKING NOW

2008-06-02T06:19:00.003-05:00

OK, the web servers are back in order, so my website and email are back up finally. It was a long day and a half and I have no fingernails left ;) but it's good to be back! I'm sorry for the time that it took, but it was competely beyond my control. Thanks for hanging in there everyone!

Website & Email TEMPORARILY DOWN

2008-06-01T07:38:00.011-05:00

OK, so I just found out my site and email have been down since some time yesterday. My server maintenance is working on it and there are about 6000 other sites down due to a fire and since my email is through them, it's down too. They don't have an ETA for repairs yet. Oh, yes and it did have to happen the very last day of the blog entries.

So- I know there have been at least one more attempted CONTEST ENTRY, so I will allow entries to be sent in today (SUNDAY) also. I must be fair and it's no ones fault about the server, so send entries to the email below and I will post the poll tomorrow (Monday)so voing can start.

*** My last email received was at 10:30 am on Saturday, so if you sent an email after that- please re-send it. I apologize for this inconvenience, but at least we still have THE BLOG!!! :) ~R

rhonda_duron@mac.com

Blog Contest Entries

2008-05-24T21:25:00.019-05:00

Here are the Little Details Blog Contest entries. How adorable are they with their lips, locks and dimples? These are sure to add some 'cutie-factor' flair to the Blog for a while. I'm glad I can't vote- it would be *WAY* hard!

Just remember- you can only enter one child per family (we must be fair) and the deadline to email me a photo is TODAY- Saturday- May 31st. I'll put up the poll shortly thereafter- so keep checking back for updates so the voting can (finally) begin!

**Just a little hint: if you tell your best friend and she enters her child- then if either of you won- you could both use the sessions, so really- you have more chances to win a session that way! Good luck to everyone.

BLOG CONTEST: THE LITTLE DETAILS

2008-05-24T14:59:00.017-05:00

Here it is!

I am so excited to announce my very first Blog Photo Contest. This morning, while I was admiring those adorable dimples on my son, the thought to do a contest entered my mind. Why not show off the special little details on other kids and have a contest? The lucky winner will receive TWO free mini-sessions, that's one for the winner and one to share with a friend. Each will also get an 8x10 from the session. So - here's what you do:

Email a recent snapshot of your child showing off that special little detail that you just can't get enough of. It could be those exotic eyes, wild curly hair, a toothless grin, wrinkly nose, gorgeous red hair or anything else that makes your heart jump with joy and will make us smile too! I will post the snapshots on the blog, so don't email what you don't want shown (I will use discretion when posting).

So- here's what else you need to do... Send this link to EVERYONE that you know and get the word out about this Blog-Only contest (you can use the email link just below this post). You'll need people to vote once the voting starts, so pass the word around! When photos are emailed in, I will post them here and add a poll for voting and who ever gets the most votes- wins! The winning sessions must be within 15 miles of Allen, Texas and my referral program does count with the contest (1-8x10 for each referred client who completes a session).

Saturday May 31st is the deadline for photo entries. **One child entry per household** Good Luck!

(Here's my son and his Little Details.)

( edited today to add further details)

Newborn Baby B. (11 days old)

2008-05-18T17:03:00.006-05:00

I have the greatest job in the world!! I get to meet and photograph the sweetest things, just like this. There is nothing like getting to capture the purity of a newborn and documenting those first days of life. This sweet guy slept nearly the whole session and gave me some great opportunities. This was also a newborn from my casting call that is still going on!

Enjoy the sneak peek Mom & Dad.

see those teeny lashes peeking out?

(see how bendy they can be this young?)

ok... just a couple more

Casting Call Newborn: Baby A. (9 days old)

2008-05-07T09:48:00.005-05:00

What a precious girl. She slept most of the time (this time around). She is the 6th child of this amazing family. Enjoy a couple of sneak peeks, Mom & Dad!

Gorgeous Faces

2008-04-24T12:06:00.010-05:00

I had the pleasure of meeting several other photographers yesterday. We spent a few fun and crazy hours at Fair Park photographing each other's children and meeting one another. (My son did not attend, but may go to the next meet).

Here are a few of my personal favorites from the day. I adored them and their interaction with each other. Enjoy~ R.

Miss E. enjoying quiet time alone in the stroller.

This is Miss L. Can you tell how much she loves her doggie?

There were caterpillars everywhere, so the boys L. & P. were very intrigued and better yet- STILL!

I got several of this boy beauty and his Blondi blonde hair. He was pointing at the pond and we walked over there for a bit.

You can never ever go wrong with kids + bubbles. Enough said.

Ahhh, the model brother and sister. They are so sweet with each other.

Little Miss E. She gave us lots of giggles and really hammed it up for the camera.

Miss K. Those soulful eyes and dark hair. What more can a photographer ask for?

I told Mister J. that he looked like a model, then he showed me his dimples.

Miss E. again and her gorgeous Baby blue eyes.

Miss K. striking a girlie pose.

Casting Call Update

2008-04-10T15:10:00.008-05:00

I still have sessions open for my Newborn Casting Call (see post further down). I have started booking for babies due any day now, but there is still room for more! Also- just a reminder that this offer ends May 30th, so send inquires very soon.

Until next time ~R

p.s.- check back often for a Fresh Faces special offer. I can't say too much quite yet and spoil the surprise, so come back soon to check it out!!

Along The Way

2008-04-03T15:26:00.009-05:00

My son never ceases to amaze me. He is now 20 months old and some where along the way he got older, taller, louder, more independent and now he's just trying to help out. Over the last couple of days, I have photographed him doing the things that he loves to do each and every day. The little things are so easy to take for granted and I wanted to document them in such a way so I don't ever forget them- in Lifestyle Portraiture. They are black & white, grainy and a have whole lot of life.

Like I said- he's a big helper. He helps break in my shoes even before breakfast.

and helps unload the dishwasher

he pauses to line up his toy trucks in the window, then gazes out at the plants he helped me pot the day before

look how perfectly he lines up my pots and pans!

making iced tea (note dripping spoon)

he stacks up the cans with amazing precision

he really tried so hard to get this plant across the kitchen floor

well deserved- he was a huge helper today

showing dad all the bath bubbles he can hold

Well, that's my Camden. He's a sweet, humorous, thumb sucking, affectionate, curious, playful, mischievous, impatient, loveable, silly, book loving, master imitator who completely makes my heart melt. I Hope you enjoyed this little piece of my life. I do every day.

Wanting Fresh Faces: Newborns

2008-03-27T18:01:00.016-05:00

I have posted a Newborn Casting Call on my website (it's under the Details menu and it says 'SPECIALS'). I'm looking for newborns to photograph that are under 2 weeks old- or younger. Spring time is here and I am looking for some wrinkly newborns! I have some fresh ideas to try out, so If you are expecting fairly soon or know any local women that are, please have them email me asap if they are interested and do so while still pregnant. You can even call me when you are still in the hospital- or on the drive home and I won't mind one bit (really!). Did I mention that I am giving a nice (ok, hefty) discount too? Better hurry- it's easier to plan newborn portraits before the birth- you know, before the whole world changes?

This special offer has been extended until May 30, 2008. Please see website for further details.

-R

Sneak Peek

2008-03-26T17:22:00.037-05:00

This is 15 month old Miss G. Isn't she adorable? She is always very cooperative and loves the camera! Mom loved the bunny ears!

Happy Easter

2008-03-25T12:56:00.009-05:00

I hope everyone had an Easter as great as ours. My son is 20 months old, so it was his first time with the Egg Hunt. He caught on very quickly and ended up with a basket that weight nearly as much as he did. His cousin is a little younger and had her own ideas of how to pass the time, but she still ended up with a nice stash too.

Here are some snapshots of the day:

Cam showing off his heavy basket:

Cam and his cousin - both too busy to smile!

And- the catch of the day- or should I say the throw of the day!

(an hour later, he threw another one into the fish pond.)

My New Blog

2008-03-20T16:00:00.007-05:00

Well, this is my brand spankin' new blog and my first official blog post and I am very excited to be sharing it with you. I'm still not quite sure what I will choose to write about each time, but it sounds like a fun adventure, so I'm game!

Please check back here often to see Specials and Promotions that I will be adding and most will be only be posted on The Blog- so see you soon!

Well, until next time. -R