Valentine Ball 2009

We were invited again this year to photograph couples at a Valentine Ball. The last few years the dance band has been Swing Essence. They have such a smooth sound, great to listen to as we work. The dancing gets better every year. I think some couples take lessons with this event in mind.

Maybe we'll take some lessons and enjoy a late dance or two next year. I'll have to call our local Dancer Guy Studio. Swing Essence is a popular band for weddings here in Northern Colorado. I made a quick group photo during a set break, and pitched a personal project for my Musician Series to Kevin Karreck the Band leader.

The MC of the Ball did some fun giveaways as tradition. Trips to Europe, New cars, Etc. (he says), but I think the gift bags have more token gifts like a massage for two or a gift card to Bed Bath and beyond and such. It's a lot of laughs. We had a nice Valentine's evening again this year.

Full Throttle Coffee House

In a previous blog post I wrote about a local coffee shop that I frequent. Last fall the shop's owner closed up and moved away. Josh and Amy Ratzlaff reopened the location with a new name... Full Throttle Coffee House. They continue with the motorcyclist theme and warm cozy ambiance. One change they made is bringing you the best pork chili smothered burrito I've ever had. Simple and delicious. I recently caught myself there for lunch 3 days in a row (day 4 I stopped myself, though I don't know why). I made these photographs as a thank you for displaying a few pieces of my Motography work on their walls (motorcycle/car enthusiast portraiture). I wanted them to have a nice portrait as well as something for promotion/advertising if needed. They show the warm and friendly atmosphere you'll experience when you stop by for coffee or lunch. Donuts, Ice cream and frozen drinks are offered as well. They have a specialty energy drink called the "Throttle-Bomb" which is fun. Stop by and give-em' a try! Like me, you may find yourself driving south when your hungry.

Katie at the park

I love it when a client takes me to a new location. It expands my thinking. Katie wanted this playground for her senior pictures. Her mother and I were sceptical but accommodating. I'm glad we did because for me, these are some of the best of the season. Not your typical setting, and I love them. It took some creative light control and I'm jazzed with the result. Because Katie has a black belt, I wanted one to show a little feminine toughness which you can see in the 2nd photograph. Thanks Katie for broadening my locational horizons.