Erin Fonnesbeck Photography

EXCITING NEWS!

2010-03-29T20:53:00.000-07:00

Alright everyone, be sure to bookmark this... I am saying goodbye to Blogger and moving over to a cleaner, fresher look.

www.erinfonnesbeckphotography.com/blog

So excited for the change and have been working so hard on the outcome. I love how it turned out so be sure to visit me often!

And as an extra bonus.... if you BECOME A SUBSCRIBER on my new blog to receive updates when I post, I am offering a $50 gift certificate for your favorite restaurant the 100th subscriber! Just click on over and hit the "subscribe" button in the menu bar. (Go ahead, it just takes a second and you know you want to and yes, friend and family can definitely win too!)

Thank you for all of your love, support and comments.... I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE comments so be sure to drop me a note every once in a while!

Stepping Out of the Box.

2010-03-18T22:24:00.000-07:00

What a treat this was! One of my favorite photographers, Julie Parker, put together this shoot with the help of Keith Bryce, the designer of this amazing dress. (Check out his amazing work and find out about his Big Bang Fashion Shoot taking place on March 27th. I so wish I could be there.)

So, about 10 of us photographers from all over the US headed down to the Las Vegas Strip to photograph Andrea Hanks and her husband, a stunning couple. It was a late night... shooting until 1am. I paid for it the next morning, but it was completely worth it!

Simply Delightful.

2010-02-26T12:29:00.001-08:00

That's certainly what this family was.... a DELIGHT. I'm telling ya'... if mom is happy, everyone is happy! What a cute mom. She was laughing right along with her kids and making it fun for everyone!

Simply... Heavenly.

2010-02-18T15:07:00.000-08:00

LOVED this baby and everything about her. Her cheeks, her complexion, her eyes. Thank you Brooke, this was fun! It is ALWAYS so much fun shooting with you.

A Day With Sara.

2010-02-16T10:43:00.000-08:00

Sara Boulter has always been one of my favorites. My friend Kim and I decided to take a little road trip to pay Sara a visit for a mentor session. Well worth the trip, I say. She was great! Here are a few shots I got in her studio with the models she coordinated. Aren't these amazingly beautiful kiddos?

Happy Love Day!

2010-02-14T21:14:00.000-08:00

Happy LOVE Day to all!

Hope your day was lovely and sweet.

XOXO

Simply Scrumptious.

2010-02-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

Two newborns in one day. I am one lucky lady! This one was born with the cutest little cheeks that were simply scrumptious.

Simply Divine.

2010-02-08T19:57:00.000-08:00

Jen Korth, a great friend and amazing photographer came all the way from SLC this weekend for a newborn mentor session. We had SO much fun doing this together. We actually had TWO babies at one time and alternated while one slept, ate, got comfy, etc... There was no down time, which was amazingly awesome. Here are a few of this sweet little, tiny little, beautiful little, petite baby girl. She was only four days old.

Calling All Newborns!

2010-01-29T14:09:00.001-08:00

I am in need of a newborn to give a free shoot away to. Yes, I said free, with all of the edited images on CD. There are qualifications however. The baby must be younger than 10 days old on the following dates: February 7th, 8th or 9th. If you are interested you can email me at efonnesbeck@hotmail.com. Pass the word along to all of your expecting friends and family! And here is a sweet little image that I will leave you with today!

Simply.... A Blessing.

2010-01-26T23:01:00.001-08:00

Hello little one! So many people have waited for your arrival for so long. You are a complete blessing to so many. You are already so loved and adored and I am so proud to be your auntie. Thank you for paying me a visit. I could have snuggled you all day!

My Latest Find.

2010-01-22T09:43:00.000-08:00

I found this in a little antique shop and HAD to buy it! This is a Kodak box camera from the 1890s and it actually it still works! Can you believe this find? I don't know why I find this little item to fascinating, but I do. I wonder who the first owner was and what pictures it took 120 years ago.

Simply.....EVERYTHING!

2010-01-09T18:18:00.000-08:00

I try to think of a descriptive word for each post.... something describing the individual or family in the shoot. Honestly... for this one I would not think of using only one. It would have been impossible because this girl is all of them..... Stunning, Gorgeous, Perfect, Chic, Elegant, Darling, Lovely, Sweet, Adoreble, Amazing. This is my littlest sister. Simply BEAUTIFUL in every way.

And P.S.... I know you will ask if her eyelashes are real... the answer is yes. Don't you think she should be on mascara commercials? Oh, if I were so blessed!

Simply STUNNING.

2009-12-18T12:22:00.001-08:00

This was a "just for fun" shoot.... Just a little practice during the holidays so I don't get rusty. However, I cannot take credit for this one. This is a beautiful friend of another beautiful friend, Brooke. Thank you for asking me to tag along! I LOVE shooting with you, especially when the model is as stunning as this.

Simply SERENE.

2009-12-07T10:30:00.000-08:00

I think this baby was the most relaxed baby I have EVER photographed. The whole 2 hours I was at their home, he did not open his eyes... not even once! What a sweetheart! He was so serene, so heavenly, so divine. Such a handsome boy!

This is the last of my sessions for a while. Phew! It has been a crazy busy season, but certainly a fun and amazing one. Thank you to everyone for coming to your shoots so amazingly dressed and for caring so much about the outcome of your photos. I have loved every single one of my clients this year and I am the luckiest girl alive. I now have so many new friends that I have made this year that I would not have met otherwise.

Unfortunately, I am not accepting any new sessions for the month of December unless you are already scheduled. (I may be able to squeeze in a newborn though, since I can't pass one of those up!) I have lots of little ones to shop for and I am taking a little time to enjoy the Christmas season with them. Feel free to contact me if you are wanting to schedule for January! Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!!!

Simply PERFECT.

2009-12-06T23:44:00.000-08:00

Overkill? Nah... when you have beautiful little girls like these, how can you NOT post tons of pictures. There were so many favorites from this shoot, I had to share them all! And when I use the word "perfect" is it seriously what these girls were. They were freezing cold, yet they listened and followed directions for over an hour! It really was unreal. Thank you little ones!!! (And I have to say that the outfits that mom chose are pretty perfect too, wouldn't you agree? Love the colors, the patterns, the shoes and accessories...the dad's jacket and sweater... fantastic job and 5 stars to this mom!)

Beautiful-ness #1.

2009-12-06T23:05:00.000-08:00

A natural model. This one made my job so easy. I love you little one!

Beautiful-ness #2.

2009-12-06T22:52:00.000-08:00

So spunky and cute! I love you too!!

Beautiful-ness #3.

2009-12-06T22:47:00.000-08:00

So lovely, this little one. And I certainly love you too!!

Simply GORGEOUS!

2009-12-04T13:31:00.000-08:00

This is my sister....my GORGEOUS sister. I love these people!!! I love them so much that I thought that they deserved their own blog post. And if you think they are gorgeous. just wait until you see their girls in my next post. Stay tuned!!!

Simply DARLING!

2009-12-04T11:56:00.000-08:00

I have known this DARLING mommy for years now. I have known her since she was only a little girl and now she has a family of her own. She was darling back then and is still as darling as ever. This is Travis' darling sister and her darling husband and darling little boy. And there is no question that baby #2 will be just as darling as big brother. Love this family! Every little darling inch of them. ;)

Simply CHIC.

2009-12-03T21:41:00.000-08:00

Chic....I can't think of a better word for this family. Ok... these words also come to mind..... Style, sophistication, grace..... And these little twins are SO beautiful... I have photographed them before but this time, they had room to run and run and run! And that's exactly what they did! Isn't their little brother the cutest thing too with his whispy little curls and bright blue eyes? Mmmmm....

Simply ELEGANT.

2009-11-30T20:06:00.001-08:00

Elegant is the first word that comes to my mind with I think of this beautiful family. Their home was the perfect spot for their session! You may remember this family from an earlier session this past year when this sweet little girl was so small.... and now they are expecting baby #2 this Spring!

Simply LOVELY.

2009-11-25T12:13:00.001-08:00

Oh my, what a treat this little one was! She was a great little sleeper and had such a calm disposition. Her little dainty and feminine features made her such a lovely little lady. And she even held her little feet still so I could get the classic "rings on the toes" picture! Great work little one!

Simply BEAUTIFUL.

2009-11-23T20:17:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness, have you ever seen a little boy this beautiful? (It's ok to call boys beautiful when they are just simply beyond handsome, right?) What a little trooper he was in the wind and the cold. This last picture shows how he had just had ENOUGH at the end! Amy, thank you for inviting me to your beautiful home and allowing me to spend time with your family! I loved every second of it!

Simply ANGELIC.

2009-11-22T20:51:00.000-08:00

Ooooh, I could have held this little one all day long. She was so soft and squishy, complete with the perfect little set of lips and such beautiful skin. Oh, she was an angel!

Simply SWEET.

2009-11-21T21:52:00.000-08:00

This mom is just that.... so sweet, thoughtful and kind. And her three boys are just the same.... well mannered, happy, and amazing. Love this family!!!

Simply ADORABLE!

2009-11-16T13:52:00.000-08:00

I just think this family is simply ADORABLE! These little kids have the sweetest faces, I still cannot get over it! These are the same little subjects you may have seen in a few posts below. And.... I LOVE the rich colors that this mom chose! This mom was stylish, fun, and so relaxed. I LOVED every ounce of this shoot!

The Gift of Custom Portraiture!

2009-11-15T22:50:00.000-08:00

Not sure what to give to that special person this Christmas? Maybe you have a friend, a wife, a mother that has "everything"? Maybe your wife has been toying around with the idea that your family needs updated photos? Well, surprise her guys, with the gift that never stops giving!!! What woman doesn't love a great surprise? (And women, you may need to forward this post to your husband because if he's anything like my husband, he needs all gift ideas in email form.) haha.

Simply AMAZING.

2009-11-15T20:31:00.000-08:00

This is one amazing mom. She is the kind of mom that seriously does it all and does it all so well. Yes, she's one of those that we all aspire to be. I love knowing this family... great, great people.

I don't normally do pictures of the mom, but i think I am going to start because it was so fun! I love how this one turned out. BEAUTIFUL! So watch out.. if you book a shoot with me, just know that you may be the center of attention for a small portion of your shoot.

A New Arrival.

2009-11-14T23:59:00.000-08:00

This tiny bundle was only 7 days old and oh, so perfect!! Thank you Jamie for allowing me to photograph your little one in his first few days. Normally, when I post newborn pictures, my black and whites are my favorites, but thought I would throw in some color ones this time because I love how they turned out!

Simple Black and Whites.

2009-11-13T12:36:00.000-08:00

I am such a sucker when it comes to the simplicity of a beautiful black and white portrait. And when you add faces as sweet as these, it's pretty easy to get a great shot! These little ones were so well behaved and fun... I loved this shoot! The glasses on this little girl, aren't they the cutest things you've ever seen?

Another Beautiful Family!!!

2009-11-12T16:38:00.000-08:00

I don't know how I get all of the great and fantastic families, but it's true.... I feel like I get all of the great ones. This one was no exception at all. A beautiful family! How am I so lucky! This little toddler didn't want anything to do with me. In fact, she had her finger pointed at me a lot of the time telling me "NO!" It was adorable and I loved her sweet little face even though she didn't love mine. :)

To all my past, present and future clients...

2009-11-11T11:40:00.000-08:00

I would like to announce the unveiling of my new products! After a LOT of contemplating, wondering, stewing and mulling over many products that I could offer, I have narrowed it down to my six favorites. I hope you know that I would never offer anything less than the best. Each one is high-end and classy, yet durable and functional. I chose these products because I, personally would purchase any of these items for my own photos and to use as decor in my own home.

Check them out here on my WEBSITE and click on products!

Another That I Love...

2009-11-11T11:34:00.000-08:00

This picture says to me, "Catch me while you can because I am busy doing my thing!" This is life! I love capturing life as it is... so imperfect.

Just a Few... for now!

2009-11-07T23:49:00.000-08:00

These little 16 month old twins were so completely adorable! Their spunkiness and delightful personalities reminded me so much of my little Brynlee. Can't wait to finish the rest of this shoot, but here's just a few for now Melissa! Hope you like em!

So Much Style!

2009-11-07T13:14:00.000-08:00

Meet Brooke, an AMAZINGLY talented photographer and now great friend of mine. It all started over a $40 cake. She didn't even know me, yet she offered to bring me this perfect little cake for Brynlee's first birthday all the way from Salt Lake to Vegas. And the rest is history! I asked her to take our family pictures this year.... that's how amazing I think her photography is. Well, when she said she wouldn't accept payment and wanted to do a photography trade instead, I was so nervous. Photographing for another photographer is a bit nerve racking. But with the fun personalities of this family and their spectacular style, they made it so easy. I love how they turned out.

And are you curious to see the pictures of MY family shot by Brooke? I just about died when I saw how fantastic they were! Click HERE to see them!

St. George Mini Shoot #3.

2009-11-03T20:00:00.000-08:00

Here's the last of my three amazingly beautiful families from St. George! Some of you may remember these parents and this little baby girl 6 months ago in her newborn shoot HERE. Beautiful kiddos, huh?

St. George Mini Shoot #2.

2009-11-02T23:03:00.000-08:00

Another great friend from the old days. Oh, the memories... way too many to list! This mommy has a house full of boys, lucky girl! And the personalities of each of these boys are just beyond cute! Thanks for a fun day in the freezing cold boys! You were all super!

St. George Mini Shoot #1.

2009-11-02T18:38:00.000-08:00

Amy and I have known each other since high school... her little gold Camry was the first car I drove and she still considered me her friend after I came only inches away from hitting a mailbox. She has an amazing family with four BEAUTIFUL children... who were sooooo easy to photograph! Hope you like em!

Two little dolls.

2009-11-01T22:34:00.000-08:00

These little sisters were cute as could be. Can you believe the smile I got from this tiny little one only 2 months old? And oh... the spunk from big sister just cracked me up and made my job so easy and so much fun.

Oh, how I LOVE newborns!

2009-11-01T14:18:00.000-08:00

This little one was only 7 days old! Isn't she such a sweet and beautiful little bundle of chub?

Lovely Family.

2009-10-26T08:15:00.000-07:00

Now that this shoot is completed, I thought I would share a few favorites! I loved the black high-tops and the fact that this mom is completely surrounded by boys at all times. Isn't she such a lovely mom?

St. George Mini Shoots!

2009-10-19T16:24:00.000-07:00

Its that time of year again! So... here's the scoop! I am so excited to announce my St. George Family Mini Shoots that will take place on the following days:

DATE: Tuesday, October 27th and Wednesday, October 28th

TIME: I will be scheduling families starting at 3:00pm, but if you need a morning session, let me know!

WHAT'S INCLUDED: A 30-minute family session which consists of family group shots and individual pictures of each child. You will receive 12-15 images on a CD with a signed image release to print as you please. You will also receive a Christmas card design in which I can print for you at an additional cost through my professional company, or you can print yourself with the printer of your choice.

COST: $200 for the session and full resolution CD of 12-15 images, (must be paid before session in order to book your time)

I thought I would throw in one of my favorite mini session images from last year!!! What a beautiful family, huh?

TO BOOK YOUR SESSION, CONTACT ME AT: efonnesbeck@hotmail.com

A Sneak Peek!

2009-10-18T22:37:00.000-07:00

This amazing family had me photograph them in their beautiful home . What a treat These little boys were so delightful and had such fun personalities. More to come!

Girl's Weekend!

2009-10-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

Pine Valley.... Girl's Weekend... 2009!!! What a blast! Even though we were missing some from this picture, I couldn't resist snapping some photos in front of this beautiful cabin that we stayed in. It was an amazing weekend of pampering, talking until 5am and eating treats. I love these ladies. Each one of them is simply amazing....seriously. I talked them all into letting me do a headshot of each of them and told them that they would thank me later when we are all older. Aren't they all such beautiful girls?

New Website!!!

2009-10-13T21:42:00.001-07:00

Yeah! It's finally completed! My new website is up and running! Check it out at www.erinfonnesbeckphotography.com. Let me know what you think!

Nicole and Cory {The Details}

2009-10-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

As you may be able to tell by the obscene number of photos in this post, capturing the details might just be my favorite part of any wedding. Why is that I wonder? Probably because the details are always still and you don't have to ask them to cooperate. Weren't the details in the wedding amazingly beautiful. So well planned and just spectacular!

Nicole and Cory {The Ceremony}

2009-09-30T10:21:00.004-07:00

My favorite picture is the first one.... Daddy walking his little girl down the aisle. There is just something special about that. There was just something special about this whole day and I loved every second. Thank you Jen for catching these fantastic images.

Nicole and Cory {The Wedding Day}

2009-09-30T10:20:00.003-07:00

Here's the first of a few posts of this AMAZING wedding at the Ritz Carlton. Wow, this was a beautiful wedding and I was so honored to be a part of it. I am so glad I had my second shooter, Jen Korth there with me to organize this crew! I couldn't have done it without you!

Can it get any cuter than this?

2009-09-29T23:50:00.001-07:00

Stunning Nicole.

2009-09-28T21:27:00.000-07:00

I photographed an amazing wedding on Saturday! Ooooh, do I have so many to show, but you will have to be patient.... Here's one for you Nicole! Enjoy!

Tutus, Umbrellas, and Puppy Dog Tails.

2009-09-21T21:11:00.000-07:00

This little Londyn was one of my very first newborn shoots that I did almost 2 years ago. She was such a beautiful little baby, I called them and BEGGED them to photograph her. I was so excited them they said yes and even more excited they they actually hung them on their wall!!! Such a CUTE family and GREAT GREAT people.

Little Londyn.

2009-09-16T19:58:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love the sweet innocence of this little face? Maybe it's the pigtails, I don't know, but I just LOVE
this face! Just one for now, but more to come!!!

Baby Brynnlee.

2009-08-30T21:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read that right! Her name is Brynnlee... only spelled with 2 n's, a little different than my little Brynlee. Such a beautiful name for such an exquisitely beautiful baby! We had a fun session yesterday and I could have photographed this one for even a couple more hours! They told me no when I asked if they would move in with me so I could photograph her whenever I wished. Oh well! I just need to find some more newborns I guess! Anyone, anyone? ;)

My Little M's.

2009-08-24T13:02:00.000-07:00

Aren't these the cutest little girls ever? Definitely some of my favorite clients. Wink, wink. ;) Ok, yes, we are related, but they would still be some of my favorites even if we weren't related! Really.

My Beautiful Niece!

2009-08-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Such a pretty little girl! I love this one.

Serenity on the beach is what it says to me.

A Mommy, A Newborn and a Big Brother.

2009-08-19T19:45:00.000-07:00

What a fun shoot this was....something a little different than the norm! This shoot was done in the comforts of this baby's home. Isn't this mommy BEAUTIFUL? You would never guess she has a one week old in these pictures. She looks fantastic! Brooke helped me with this one also - we make a great team, her and I. She is a DELIGHT to work with and is one amazingly talented lady!

Baby Keaton.

2009-08-10T17:10:00.000-07:00

Baby Keaton came to me at only 8 days old. What a sweet baby! Goodness, he was patient with me! Yet another beautiful baby! I am so lucky because get all of the cute ones. :) It was so fun to shoot this one with you, Brooke!

The Progression of a Cake Smash.

2009-08-09T16:21:00.000-07:00

This is a very serious one-year-old. I think her cake smash must have been filled with a litle confusion or possibly even a little guilt for eating so much sweets. She didn't crack a smile the whole time, she just quietly picked at her cake then finally tried a piece of the yummy sweetness. (Notice the before shot at the first and the after shot at the end.) This cake was brought all the way from SLC from my friend Brooke!

Birth Photography!

2009-08-07T15:42:00.001-07:00

What an amazing opportunity it was to photograph this birth! I was there to capture the first moments of this little one's life. His first little squeals, his first breaths, the first time meeting his mommy and daddy. It was remarkable to be on the "other side" of a delivery. I have only been the one HAVING the babies, not the other way around.

I really wanted to capture the sights and sounds of this delivery. Hearing the constant beep of the monitor, tracking the contractions and the baby's heartbeat was so soothing....it meant all was well with the baby. The drip of the IV, the quiet conversation, the constant knock on the door followed by a nurse entering the room. An anxious dad, patiently waiting and passing time. Then hearing the babys' first cries. It really is a phenomenol experience being in a delivery room.

It was amazing and I am ready to do it again - anytime.

Baby Lailie.

2009-08-06T21:48:00.000-07:00

Isn't Lailie just the sweetest name for a tiny girl? This little one was only five days old... yep, you got it... five days old and as perfect as could be. She was getting in some great napping time! Oh what a beautiful baby!

Gallery Wraps Sale Extended!

2009-08-06T17:19:00.001-07:00

If you missed out on the gallery wrapped canvas sale, I am extending it for another week. Sale will end August 12th and the 20% discount will continue until then. If you have a favorite photo, I can email you a sample of what it would look like as a wrap!

Gallery Wraps 20% Off!

2009-07-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

From now until August 2nd, I am offering my gallery wrapped canvases at 20% off! Email me if you would like pricing! This is a great time to get some beautiful artwork on your walls if you have had a past session from me!

Nicole and Cory.

2009-07-23T20:39:00.000-07:00

Meet Nicole and Cory.....

They will be tying the knot in September at the Ritz Carlton at Lake Las Vegas. I bet I am just as excited for their wedding day as they are! When Cory was asked what was most important to him on his wedding day, he said,"That Nicole gets everything she wants." Good man!

They love sushi, Led Zepplin, traveling, trying new restaurants and movies. They love entertaining, cooking, and skiing.

We spent a few hours together for their engagement session in extreme heat. It was a great few hours though and so fun to get to know this amazing couple. Can't wait for the wedding!

A Little Mathematics.

2009-07-22T10:05:00.000-07:00

This family has become a frequent presence on my blog!

Darling, darling kids +

A stylish mommy +

An overcast day +

A family who has fun with each other =

Such a great an easy shoot!

I LOVE this family.

Wowzers!!!

2009-07-20T16:57:00.000-07:00

I chose black and white. It was a hard one. WOWZERS, these kids are BEAUTIFUL! (I don't think I have said WOWZERS since I was little.)

Black and White or Color???

2009-07-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

Black and white or color? Can't decide on this shoot. These twin sisters have amazing blue eyes, but the black and whites are so dramatic. What would you pick if you were printing for your walls?

A Tiny One.

2009-07-19T21:21:00.000-07:00

Thank you little one for making the trip all the way from St. George. It must have been an exhausting day for you!! You were super sweet and oh, so beautiful! I LOVE this baby's little lips.

The Rings.

2009-07-14T22:51:00.000-07:00

Can you believe I shot Lauren and Alex's wedding and never took pictures of the rings? So... two months later, here are a few of their ring pics.

I Could Not Have Worded It Better.....

2009-07-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across this article a while back and knew I had to keep tabs on it. I have had numerous people comment on how easy it must be to be a photographer... "Just snap a few clicks and you're done!" That is the mind-set of many who are unfamiliar with photography. Most don't know it is hours and hours of work after the shoot. It has taken months and months of constant practice, learning, research and so much time and MONEY!!! I love every aspect of it, but is has really been hard work and will always continue to be as long as I am doing it.

I do offer the CD for purchase for clients, although most photographers do not. Most photographers like to protect their work from uncalibrated printers and quick printing jobs. When I see a cheaply printed picture I have taken on someone's wall, it makes me a little sad, but I know that having the printing rights to their photos is important to a lot of people. I could not have worded this article better.

Why are Professional Photographers so expensive?

By Shawn Richter

In this digital age where everyone has digital cameras, scanners and home "photo printers", when people upload their photos to a local drug store website and pick them up a few hours later, we hear this all the time - How in the world do Professional Photographers charge $55 (actually more then what I charge) for an 8x10 when they cost just $1.50 at the drug store?

Here's why. Simply put, you're not just paying for the actual photograph, you're paying for time and expertise. First, let's look at the actual time involved. If you don't read this entire page, at least read this first part. For a two hour portrait session:- one hour of travel to and from the session- two hours of shooting- 30 minutes of setup, preparation, talking to the client etc.- 30 minutes to load the photos onto a computer (2 - 4 Gb of data)- 30 minutes to back up the files on an external drive- 3 - 4 hours of Photoshop time including cropping, contrast, color, sharpening, saving a copy for print and a copy for the internet and backing up the edited photographs- 2 - 3 hours to talk to the client, answer questions, receive their order and payment, order their prints, receive and verify prints, package prints, schedule shipment and drop package off at Fed Ex.- For local customers, we also print a set of all of their photos, and meet them at our studio to review the photos and place their order. Meeting and travel time averages 2 hours. You can see how one two hour session easily turns into more than ten hours of work from start to finish. So when you see a photographer charging a $200 session fee for a two hour photo shoot, you are not paying them $100 / hour. For an eight hour wedding:- I won't bore you with the details, but an eight hour wedding typically amounts to at least two to three full 40 hour work weeks worth of time. Again, if they are charging you $4,000 for an eight hour wedding, you are not paying them $500 / hour.

Now for the expertise. Shooting professional photography is a skill, acquired through years of experience. Even though a quality camera now costs under $2,000 taking professional portraits involves much more than a nice camera. Most professional photographers take years to go from buying their first decent camera to making money with their photography. In addition to learning how to use the camera itself, there is a mountain of other equipment involved, as well as numerous software programs used to edit and print photographs, run a website etc. And let's not forget that you actually have to have people skills, be able to communicate, make people comfortable in front of the camera - and posing people to make them look their best in a photograph is a skill all by itself. Think of it this way - the next time you pay $X to get your hair done, a pair of scissors only costs $1.50. But you gladly pay a lot more to hire a professional.

What about the cheap studios at the mall? Please don't compare us to the chain store studios. But if you must, consider all of the time and work that we put into our photographs, compared to what they do. Good luck getting a two hour photo shoot at a chain store. Not to mention they won't come to the beach! And of course, look at our work compared to theirs. You get what you pay for. The truth is, most of the mall and chain store studios lose money. In fact, in 2007 Wal-Mart closed 500 of their portrait studios because of the financial drain they were putting on the company. What the chain stores bet on is that you'll come in for some quick and cheap photos, and while you're there, you'll also spend $200 on other things. They don't have to make money, they are just there to get you in the door.

Conclusion: We hope that those who have taken the time to read this page will have a better understanding of why professional photographs cost so much more than the ones that you get from your local drug store. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

A Very Serious Pair.

2009-07-02T14:39:00.000-07:00

These two were so sweet with each other. They "posed" themselves by putting their arms around each other while looking straight at the camera. It's like they had taken lessons! It was great! They were so quiet and serious during the whole session. This last one just cracks me up because this is how he was the whole time. Beautiful kids, huh?

Photography 101.

2009-07-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

Some of you have mentioned that you would like to see a post here and there with photography tips and tricks. I haven't been very good at fulfilling this wish, but here is one that is so simple. Take one photo that you LOVE, crop it a few different ways, turn them to black and white and... VOILA... you have SIX photo options from one single image!

And More Little Peanuts!!!

2009-06-27T14:30:00.000-07:00

The last of the nieces and nephews photo shoot in St. George. These three peanuts are just the best... so full of personality and just...BEAUTIFUL kids.

Another Little Peanut.

2009-06-25T15:45:00.000-07:00

Another nephew of mine with TO-DIE-FOR blue eyes. I promise, I didn't touch these eyes - they are just naturally so beautiful...really, I promise!

A Cute Little Peanut.

2009-06-23T22:54:00.000-07:00

Isn't this a darling family? I love this little nephew of mine - isn't he so handsome? He is at that hilarious age where everything he does just makes me laugh. (Oh, and his mom and dad are pretty cute too, wouldn't you say?)

Lauren, Alex, and a California Sunset.

2009-06-17T20:32:00.000-07:00

No matter how much I begged, I couldn't convince Lauren and Alex to let me tag along on their honeymoon as their photographer. They even laughed when I suggested it! Can you believe it? So, I had to settle with a few on the beach in La Jolla before the wedding. Such a good looking couple that even their silhouettes look good!

Product Shot.

2009-06-14T15:18:00.000-07:00

Ok... This lady knits the cutest things! Brynn was a great little model! She made this diaper cover for Brynlee and asked in return that I photograph it for her. She has an etsy shop and you can find her amazing items here:

www.knitsbyknittinmama.etsy.com

Baby Clara.

2009-06-12T20:39:00.001-07:00

Oh, I loved this little one. She was so patient and calm. Now that I think about it, I didn't even get to hear her sweet little newborn cry! She was perfect the whole time - no joke. She was so tiny and feminine, and had the most beautiful newborn skin and perfect head of hair.

One Great Family.

2009-06-11T19:10:00.000-07:00

One of my greatest friends.... she allowed me to borrow her family for this shoot for one of my mentoring sessions. These kids are amazing - so well rounded, so smart and such great human beings - all of them. I love this family. Thanks for spending the morning with us!

Taking Time To Breathe.

2009-06-10T10:01:00.000-07:00

Just a little FYI.... I will not be scheduling any sessions for the months of June - July. Taking a little time off to..... breathe.... and enjoy the summer with my kids.... and that's a good enough excuse as any, right? It is still possible that I may still accept a teeny, tiny, squishy, sweet, and precious newborn, so email me if you have one of these. I will not be scheduling any other sessions at this time.

Oh my goodness... I received an email with the following quote only minutes after I published this post. This is eerie!

"Once upon a time, there was a very busy girl. She lived with a tired, yet hopeful soul. Then, one day, her soul asked her to stop... and just breathe. And so she did. And the girl and her soul lived happily ever after."

Author Unknown
but greatly appreciated

No joke. Someone is watching me.

Lauren and Alex...The Wedding Day!

2009-05-25T20:10:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Boy.

2009-05-24T18:24:00.000-07:00

Stephanie and Angie from whimsypix paid me a little visit yesterday for a mentor session. These gals came from SLC for me and I spilled my beans for them. We did two photo shoots together (newborn and family) and spent A LOT of time on the computer. Here are a few from the newborn shoot we did. Thanks Steph for bringing your new little one all the way down from St. George!

Lauren and Alex...the Reception Details.

2009-05-20T19:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, so... I have a new love... the details of a wedding day.... the things that are one day forgotten... the things that the mother of the bride stresses over for months before the big day. So much time and energy into centerpieces, decorations, displays.... the unique things that make a wedding personal and special.... I loved documenting every one of Lauren's (very well-planned) details! Welcome home you two LOVE BIRDS!!!

More for Kendra.

2009-05-19T22:14:00.000-07:00

Just finished this one up! Kendra, I hope you enjoy your senior photos as much as I enjoyed taking them! You are a darling girl and will go places in this world! Good luck on your college journeys!!!

FREE SESSION!!!

2009-05-18T20:36:00.000-07:00

Is there anyone out there that wants to let me borrow their newborn this Saturday? Totally FREE of charge. Pass the word around! I am teaching a couple of mentor sessions on Saturday and need a "model". Anyone, anyone? (Less than 2 weeks old??) Please inquire to efonnesbeck@hotmail.com for details.

2009-05-17T22:14:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun with this little one. I still can't believe how beautiful she is. She is absolutely perfect! So glad I got to capture her in her first few days!

An Amazing Workshop.

2009-05-16T22:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you Dustin for hosting an amazing workshop! We spent a jam-packed 14-hour day with this phenomenal SLC photographer. This engagement shoot was so fun, relaxed and full of romance, for sure. Wow! This couple was on fire and completely in L-O-V-E!

Kendra.

2009-05-16T09:02:00.000-07:00

Kendra, doing your senior session was so much fun! Here are a few of my favorites to give you a little taste of the images we captured. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this special time in your life - finishing high school and moving out into the big world! You are beautiful and your sweet personality shows through in these photos. (Doesn't she remind you of a young Marie Osmond?) More to come!

My Sweeties.

2009-05-15T15:24:00.001-07:00

What would we all do without these 3 little cousins of ours??? Aren't they so amazingly beautiful and sweet?

A Few More Favorites!

2009-05-13T21:23:00.000-07:00

A Preview for Mommy and Daddy.

2009-05-08T11:39:00.001-07:00

Sweet, happy and beautiful girls! It was so fun to work with this family. We did this shoot in their amazing home so the girls could be.... themselves! Here is a small preview for you! More to come!

10 Days New.

2009-05-01T22:58:00.000-07:00

WOW!! This baby was amazing. What a sleeper! Isn't she so beautiful? This little one came down from St. George for the day for a little photo shoot. Camerlee and Nate, I hope you like them! There are certainly more to come, but for now, I gotta pack for 5 people and get out of town! Wa Hoo!

Another side note.... maybe I am crazy... I love doing newborn shoots so much that I am offering a special for the month of May ....50% off of your session fee!!!!! That's a savings of $100!!! Here's the catch...

1. You must have a baby less than 10 days old.
2. You must be willing to spend 2-3 hours with me in my home studio. Newborns always need extra time for a few feedings, diaper changes, etc....
3. You must be willing to give me permission to use the images for portfolio purposes.

Any takers??? Anyone? Anyone??????

A Few Favorites...

2009-04-25T09:07:00.001-07:00

Oh, Sweet One...

2009-04-23T23:43:00.000-07:00

Funny story about this last photo.... When this baby and his mommy and daddy showed up at my house, I was out front with my friend Kim Ashton literally sawing a huge branch out of my tree. When I explained that we were going to hang their baby from a tree branch, they were a little startled, but this mom and dad were such good sports. The baby was so cooperative too, even though this little homemade sling was a bit tricky.

A Long Lost Photo.

2009-04-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

I found this sweet little face while cleaning up some files tonight. I never posted her and I think she is so so cute! This was taken in Kate Moss' studio last month and got lost in the shuffle. I am sorry little one! How could one forget you?

8 Days Tiny.

2009-04-22T15:58:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few from the FREEBIE newborn shoot that I offered a few weeks back. Definitely more to come of this sweet little one!

Lauren and Alex, the End Has Come.

2009-04-21T15:45:00.000-07:00

Well, Lauren and Alex.... our time has come to an end. This is the last post from your bridal shoot! It has been a lot of fun and I love both of you. Thanks for allowing me to be your photographer. For those of you who know this bride and groom, you can use their last name as the password to view their whole gallery on my website. Visit http://www.erinfonnesbeckphotography.com/, click on "proofing" and type the password.

Lauren and Alex, I hope your eternity together is nothing but amazing and splendid!

Love, Your Sis

Lauren and Alex....Just Looking Beautiful.

2009-04-21T09:51:00.000-07:00

Lauren, Alex, and a Bit More Love.

2009-04-20T23:39:00.000-07:00

Lauren, Alex and a Southern Porch.

2009-04-20T21:55:00.001-07:00

Have we seen enough of these two yet? I think not! I am having a lot of fun! Honestly, Lauren and Alex... I think this might be my favorite shoot of ALL TIME!!! I love you guys!