Belle's Photography

Baby Blooms! Baby Flower Photography

2008-08-19T10:50:00.005-05:00

Belle's Baby Bloom sessions are perfect for Mom's with babies in the Abilene area! This session uses a couture blooming bonnet with matching bow.

Baby Blooms turn out so cute and are perfect for babies under 12 months old. You pick your favorite bonnet and we take a variety of poses, perfect for the age of your baby.

Here is one of my favs from a recent session! Sweet sleepy girl. Sleeping during an infant session where the baby is less than 3 months old is totally normal and welcome. There is no need to wake a sleeping baby for your session.

We make the studio nice and warm and place your child on a soft surface, so she's as comfy as can be.

Baby Bloom sessions are available for a limited time. The session fee is only $199 and based on availability. Call Belle's Photography at (325)201-7458 today to schedule your Baby Bloom session! Everyone will oooh and ahhh over your baby even more! Baby Bloom photos are so much fun to show off to friends and family. You'll totally love the shots and treasure them forever.

The Reason Behind the Changes!

2008-08-04T18:00:00.002-05:00

Until recently this blog was devoted entirely to our professional offerings - workshops and seminars intended for other professional photogs. But, not too long ago we decided to switch things up... And now, this has become the place to go to find highlights from recent sessions, and random thoughts and offerings from Belle's photogs. The Belle's blog is now a place for us to keep in touch with our clients!

But, we are still dedicated to continuing education among professional shooters. And so, we've launched an entire sub-domain for all of our professional offerings! Right now that means we're focusing on our huge Wedding Photography Workshop on October 28th, 2008 in Abilene, TX. Check it our here:

Fun senior Session

2008-08-02T13:34:00.006-05:00

We had the pleasure of shooting this great senior at Cooper High School recently. She was so much fun. We started in the studio and then headed out and about for some more bright stuff.

These are my favs from that shoot. They have a cool edgy thing going on and Apryl looks crazy beautiful!

And this one just has a vintage Golden Age of Hollywood kinda feel. Very retro.

I'll try and post favs from at least one session a week. We have been so busy lately, Im not sure if I can keep up with it - but I am gonna try!

Switching stuff up

2008-08-02T13:32:00.003-05:00

We are switching up our workshop and blog pages. Now our blog will have info and photos from whats up at the photography studio. If you were dying to attend one of our workshops, dont freak - you can still check out whats new by going back to the portal page on our website: www.bellesphotography.com and click workshops. They have their own site now. Next big workshop is on October 26th!

Great Workshop & Whats Next

2008-06-30T09:28:00.004-05:00

So far the images I have seen from this past Sunday's workshop have been excellent. Congrats to those who won the door prizes!

Our next up and coming workshop is in Abilene, Texas at the Chapel on the Hill. The Weddings 102 workshop is a lot fun and a great chance to shoot a practice wedding.

Some of you may be wondering, where the heck is Abilene? Abilene is about 2 hours west of the DFW area. For those of you flying in for this event, Abilene does have an airport. The code is ABI. So far Carol still takes the cake for attendee who lives the farthest away. Alaska is pretty far! See, Abilene - not so far. ;o)

From more info and to sign up, follow this link. Class size is limited so sign up early! Registration will be removed when the class is full.

LOCATION CHANGE - Workshop this Sunday

2008-06-24T16:53:00.001-05:00

The location for this Sunday's Workshop has changed to:
Natural Expression Studio
2800 Shamrock Ave. Suite B,
Fort Worth, TX 76107

OK, here is updated info on the location. We had several people who were not comfortable with the release. Even though it's a standard release, I don't want to pressure anyone to sign it. Since most of you signed up for this before the location was annouced we have relocated it to a nice studio that isn't a stickler for all this paper work the Cotton Mill is insisting upon.

Please check your email for the update on the location. The address and location have been updated in this post. This new location is spacious and PERFECT for what we are doing. We'll have plenty of room and the owners have been really great to us!

Email me if you have any questions or if you aren't getting our emails. We are using the email address you provided with your paypal account.

And no - you dont have to fill out or fax back anything ahead of time. Just show up at 1pm and get ready to have some fun.

Sunflower Bridals - New Marketing Image

2008-06-23T15:59:00.002-05:00

OK, I normally don't post any of my work on here, but this shot is growing on me. Odds are this one will end up in new marketing pieces for the photography studio and the bridal shop.

I love sunflowers. And this is one of my favorite gowns. B/t the 2 - it's growing on me.

Location Announced for Finding Style Workshop

2008-06-23T13:14:00.004-05:00

Next weekend's photography Finding Style Workshop is going to be held in the super cool Natural Expressions Studio!

Natural Expression Studio
2800 Shamrock Ave. Suite B,
Fort Worth, TX 76107

I am SOOOO excited about this workshop and this location is PERFECT!

There are still a couple of seats left! And the price is freakin good for this location and a model - never mind the workshop part. Click here for details or to sign up. Oh, and I had several people ask exactly how much you need to know for this class. You need to have your DSLR, a basic understanding of photography terminology (like if Mike says adjust your ISO you'll know what he's talking about), and a desire to have a fun time learning some new stuff. Holly will be doing some handholding for a couple of brave newBs who jumped in. If you're thinking about coming and have any ?s, email and we're happy to help you figure out if this class is for you.

And YES - we will be dabbling with some dramatic lighting. Boo Yah!

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY 102: ABILENE- JULY 27th, 2008

2008-05-29T09:43:00.002-05:00

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY 102: THE WEDDING

SUNDAY, JULY 27th ABILENE, TEXAS

Introducing Wedding Photography 102! This brand new class/ workshop focuses solely on wedding day photography.
Weddings 102 Workshop is 1/3 lecture and 2/3 workshop aka shooting. We will discuss and practice shooting a wedding. You will quickly learn what it's like to shoot a wedding in poor lighting. You'll find out what to do when your movements are limited so you still get great images. Belle's Photography always goes for stealth mode for weddings - so you'll learn how to be an unobtrusive photographer as well.

We will be covering the following content:

Shoot a Mock Wedding
The Flow of the Wedding Day
Key Shots & When to Take Them
How to Nail Difficult Shots (even in poor lighting)
Low Lighting Challenges
Quick Posing for Alter Shots
Fun & Contemporary Bridal Party Poses
What to Expect on the Wedding Day
Working Effectively with a Wedding Coordinator
The Rules About the Rules
Limitations and How to Work with Them
2nd Shooter Tips that lead to More Gigs
Major Mess-ups and how to Avoid Them
Getting Started in Wedding Photography

Weddings 102 was designed to allow photographers to get their feet wet in wedding photography, by shooting a mock wedding. So there is no risk of messing up someone's once in a lifetime event. This workshop will be a staged event. Photographers will have the opportunity to shoot the bride, groom, ceremony, alter shots, and bridal party as a wedding photographer would normally progress through the day. If you haven't shot weddings before, it may surprise you to see how flexible the day is with getting the shots you need.

This workshop will be held at a real wedding location in Abilene, Texas. The Chapel on the Hill is a beautiful wedding venue adorned with limestone, marble, and stained glass. During the workshop you will have the opportunity to shoot a mock wedding in full wedding attire. There will be the bride in a designer wedding gown, groom decked out in a tux, and attendants in matching attire. You'll learn quickly how a wedding day typically progresses. After the shooting in the chapel, we will do posing and move through a typically wedding day requests including alter shots. During this time there will be on-going speaking and opportunity for Q&A.

How does this class help you? There are lots of practical ways this class will help your business. Not only will you walk away with portfolio pieces from an entire wedding, but you'll grasp some crucial information that can make or break you in the wedding photography industry.

This workshop is a 100 level class which means newBs are welcome. The only requirement for the class is that you have a DSLR camera. You do not need to have taken Weddings 101 prior to this class. They can be taken interchangeably. Weddings 102 builds on Weddings 101, but branches off into a different, yet practical direction. What's the difference between Weddings 101 & 102? Well, 101 focuses largely on discussion of key shots, and wedding portrait basics with an emphasis on bridal portraits. Bridal portraits are a key component in booking weddings. In weddings 102 you'll actually be shooting a mock wedding. The class fixates on the wedding day itself.

The class size for this event is extremely limited, so if you want to sign up, do it early. The smaller class size means more attention, more help, and more opportunity to participate. This isn't a little lecture where you sit back and listen. This is a jump in and get your feet wet workshop!

The shooting section will be from 1pm-4pm. After that we will head to a local eatery for a light dinner to decompress and ask questions that may have arisen from during the day. Light dinner will be provided.

Location: Chapel on the Hill, Abilene, TX
Instructor: Mike
Date: July 27th, 2008
Time: 1:00pm-6:00pm
Investment:Click here to register
Class Size: 12 students

New Workshop Dates for the rest of 2008

2008-05-27T09:25:00.004-05:00

Quick notes:

The Dallas finding style class still has a few seats open. This class will have a lot of hand holding for those of you who need it. That class is listed HERE and is on June 29th.

The Weddings 102 class sold out quickly. I've had enough requests to open another section. The next time the class will be offered is in late July in Abilene, TX.

Our workshops through the fall are as follows:

June:
22nd: Weddings 102 - Kaufman, TX (outside of Dallas)
29th: Finding Style - Dallas, TX

July:
26th: Weddings 102 - Abilene, TX

August:
9th: Making Money in Photography - Abilene, TX
10th: Intro to Digital Photography - Abilene, TX

September:
TBA: Dramatic Lighting - Abilene, TX

October:
19th: Intro to Wedding Photography I & II - New York

Please note that cities will not be repeated, so make sure you catch us when we are in your neck of the woods. If you would like to attend a class in Abilene, TX, please use the local airport (airport code is ABI) which is serviced by Continental and American Airlines.

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY 102: DALLAS - JUNE 22nd

2008-05-02T08:01:00.018-05:00

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY 102: THE WEDDING
Sunday, June 22nd - Kaufman, Texas

Shoot a Mock Wedding
The Flow of the Wedding Day
Key Shots & When to Take Them
How to Nail Difficult Shots (even in poor lighting)
Low Lighting Challenges
Quick Posing for Alter Shots
Fun & Contemporary Bridal Party Poses
What to Expect on the Wedding Day
Working Effectively with a Wedding Coordinator
The Rules About the Rules
Limitations and How to Work with Them
2nd Shooter Tips that lead to More Gigs
Major Mess-ups and how to Avoid Them
Getting Started in Wedding Photography

Weddings 102 was designed to allow photographers to get their feet wet in wedding photography, by shooting a mock wedding. So there is no risk of messing up someone's once in a lifetime event. This workshop will be a staged event. Photographers will have the opportunity to shoot the bride, groom, ceremony, alter shots, and bridal party as a wedding photographer would normally progress through the day. If you haven't shot weddings before, it may surprise you to see how flexible the day is with getting the shots you need.

This workshop will be held at a real wedding location south of Dallas, Texas. The Victorian House (pictured below) is a beautiful wedding venue equipped with a chapel and beautiful grounds. During the workshop you will have the opportunity to shoot a mock wedding in full wedding attire. There will be the bride in a designer wedding gown, groom decked out in a tux, and attendants in matching attire. You'll learn quickly how a wedding day typically progresses. After the shooting in the chapel, we will do posing and move through a typically wedding day requests including alter shots. During this time there will be on-going speaking and opportunity for Q&A.

How does this class help you? There are lots of practical ways this class will help your business. Not only will you walk away with portfolio pieces from an entire wedding, but you'll grasp some crucial information that can make or break you in the wedding photography industry.

This workshop is a 100 level class which means newBs are welcome. The only requirement for the class is that you have a DSLR camera. You do not need to have taken Weddings 101 prior to this class. They can be taken interchangeably. Weddings 102 builds on Weddings 101, but branches off into a different, yet practical direction. What's the difference between Weddings 101 & 102? Well, 101 focuses largely on discussion of key shots, and wedding portrait basics with an emphasis on bridal portraits. Bridal portraits are a key component in booking weddings. In weddings 102 you'll actually be shooting a mock wedding. The class fixates on the wedding day itself.
The class size for this event is extremely limited, so if you want to sign up, do it early. The smaller class size means more attention, more help, and more opportunity to participate. This isn't a little lecture where you sit back and listen. This is a jump in and get your feet wet workshop!

The shooting section will be from 11am-2pm. After that we will head to a local eatery for a late lunch to decompress and ask questions that may have arisen from during the day. Lunch will be provided.

Location: The Victorian House, 3950 FM 987, Kaufman, TX
Instructor: Mike
Time: 11:00am-4:00pm
Investment: $299 per person - CLASS IS SOLD OUT
Class Size: 10 students

1. Jessica B
2. Brady
3. Brady's Friend
4. Jessi W.
5. Marty F.
6. Monty I.
7. Carol S.
8. Tracie B.
9.Kyle M.
10. Lisa M

Please note: Workshops are 1st come 1st served. When the class is full, no more students will be admitted. Any and all funds will be returned if you enroll after the class has reached capacity. Due to the nature of this event, it is non-refundable, non-transferable. If the event is canceled by Belle's, all registration fees will be refunded. In the case of inclement weather, please contact the studio for updates.

Wedding Photography 102: June 2008

2008-04-26T12:44:00.002-05:00

Belle's is finalizing details on a new wedding photography workshop - Wedding Photography 102. This workshop will be 1/3 speaking and 2/3 shooting a wedding. Coming June 2008. More details will post shortly.

DALLAS: Finding Style Portrait Workshop - June 29th, 2008

2008-04-14T09:51:00.011-05:00

DFW: Finding Style Portrait Workshop

Sunday, June 29th

Belle's has put on workshops across the country. We offer hands-on help for fledgling photographers in a fun and easy atmosphere.

This workshop will be held in Dallas, Texas. And this is a workshop, not a lecture. Which means that there is lots of hands-on learning. This workshop is an in-depth look at portraiture and the various styles. We will be specifically shooting EACH style listed below. We will have the same model in the same gown and you'll see 1st hand how much style affects your portraits.

I've decided to expand this workshop from only bridals to specifically include BRIDAL and PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY. We will have a wedding gown, a prom gown, and street clothes (jeans or what have you).

The purpose of the workshop is to examine different styles of portraiture so that you can better establish your own style.

The workshop will cover the following topics, then some:

Different Bridal Portrait Styles
Traditional Bridals
Vintage Bridals
Contemporary Bridals
Urban/ Edgy Bridals
Dramatic Bridals
Different Portrait Styles
Traditional Portraits
Vintage Portraits
Contemporary Portraits
Urban/ Edgy Portraits
Dramatic Portraits
Lighting Styles
Posing Do's and Don'ts
How Pose Affects Style
Composition
Q&A through the day - ask away!
Get Great Portfolio Pieces!
Model(s) Provided

We will have a model wearing a wedding gown for this event. THIS WILL BE AN EXCELLENT TIME TO GET SOME KILLER PORTFOLIO PIECES. NewB photogs are totally welcome! This is an intro-intermediate level class. What does that mean? If you aren't quiet sure of your camera yet (like you just got it out of the box) you may have information overload pretty quick. Our workshops and classes that have a '101' in the title are entry level. This workshop will assume you have a DSLR camera and have a basic understanding of how to use it. The 101 classes are an overview of a topic and scratch the surface - this workshop is diving deep into the various aspects of the different STYLES of portraiture.

If you have attended a Belle's Workshop before this one is a bit more advanced. We are going to move through the subject matter in a logical progression, first looking at different portrait styles, and then setting up our own poses. In the 101 classes, we set most of the poses. In this class, you guys are going to be setting up your own shots by the end of the class. To establish your style you need to try things yourself and know what you like.

For example, Belle's overall portrait style typically hangs out wedged between contemporary/urban dramatic - however facets of the other styles influence our current style. I tend to like somber realist paintings from the Romantic period, and its typically reflected in my work. If you don't venture out of your safe zone, it makes it very difficult to establish your own style. This class will put you straight into trying other styles. Since style is a big part of what sells you to a client, its worth paying attention to.

In other words, if you've been looking for your 'look,' this workshop will offer several different looks to try out and hopefully shove you off into creating your own style. Style starts somewhere, baby!

Location: Natural Expression Studio, 2800 Shamrock Ave. Suite B, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Instructor: Mike & Holly
Time: 1pm-4pm
Date: June 29, 2008
Cost: Only $199 per person
Registration: CLICK HERE to register!

Class is almost sold out - if you have been thinking about attending, jump in.

See you tomorrow!

2008-04-12T19:46:00.002-05:00

For those of you that are attending the AUSTIN WORKSHOP this Sunday - here is the additional info.

Where? 12504 Black Mesa Cove, Austin, TX
When? Sunday, April 13th from 1-4pm
What should I bring? Bring your camera, lenses, reflectors, flashes, mono pods, and what ever you have.

Registration: When you arrive at the location, you will be asked to fill out a registration form. You should bring a copy of your payment with you in case your name is not on the list.

Parking: Since this is a private residence, you can NOT park on site. We do not all fit. If you are not a shuttle driver do NOT park at the house. When you find the house (its kind of mid-block) continue on to the end of the street. You will see a public school yard. We will be parking in this lot and will get shuttled over to the house. Currently, we have 1 volunteer. We could still use one more shuttle driver to get everyone over to the house quickly. Since parking requires shuttles, make sure you are on time! We cannot wait for you if you are late. And its a bit of a hike from the parking lot to the house. Please arrive about 10 mins early to make sure you get a ride. The last shuttle will leave the parking lot at 1:05pm - do NOT miss it.

Extra: Since this workshop is smaller than most, we can do some more stuff. Holly have a couple of gowns from a new designer who would like them photographed. So, I invite anyone who is interested in that to shoot with Holly, ask questions, and all.

Groups: Typically, our workshops attendees are split into small groups. Here is the plan if we stay at less than 20 attendees for Austin - we are going to have 2 models near each other (at different spots on the grounds) where you can walk back and forth between the models and still hear the speaker. The whole group will travel the grounds together to the different shooting locations. I'll have additional wedding gowns with me and change up what the models are wearing at least once. The idea is so you can see what to do when gowns are different shapes.

Model Release: Each attendee will be given a model release that will allow them to use the images in their portfolios. Make sure you get one before you leave.

Rain: If it rains - we'll be shooting anyway. There are some indoor locations here, and I'm all for shooting in the rain.

Contact: You can call my cell if you are running horribly late or need to get in touch. The number is (325) 201-7458.

Lost/ Need Directions: Holly and I are not from Austin, so if you get lost, I can tell you if you are close (assuming your within a couple of blocks of something I recognize). And don't ask Holly for directions - you'll end up in El Paso. lol. We strongly recommend printing directions BEFORE you leave. This home is in the middle of a residential section and it does not look like a castle from the front. You can't really see what he's done until you are up by the house.

Austin Workshop Sponsors

2008-03-30T12:07:00.002-05:00

I've added the workshop sponsors to the original Austin workshop post below. MPIX has offered to help us out again and Simply Canvas has made a very generous offer. Each attendee will get a $50 certificate to Simply Canvas and one lucky person will get a 20"x24" gallery wrap! Don't ya love going to workshops that give you stuff instead of trying to sell you more stuff? lol. THIS IS GONNA BE SO MUCH FUN!

Austin Photography Workshop

2008-03-24T19:30:00.001-05:00

The Austin Photography workshop is filling up fast! Make sure you get a seat in this one. The location is WONDERFUL! Only a few spots left. See you there!

New York: Private Workshop April 2nd

2008-03-11T08:17:00.002-05:00

I'll be in NY on April 1st and 2nd offering private tutorials. I still have one opening. If you would like more info on this event, please contact me. Private workshops are a great way to get one-on-help and learn lots of info really FAST. For those of you that already signed up - see you then!

Class List for Austin

2008-03-08T08:56:00.004-06:00

Hey! Just a quick note to add those that have signed up for the Austin workshop to date. Also, please note that this event is at a private residence, so please dont call them if you have questions. A couple days before the workshop an email will go out to everyone attending with directions and info you'll need. Can't wait!

CLASS LIST (these)=PayPal Account Name:
1. Cindy (CD Kirby)
2. Tim H.
3. Emil H.
4. Francis C.
5. Jennifer (David J.)
6. Tali (Clifford W.)
7. Nadia
8. Jack
9. Tayna
10. Jacquline
11. Valerie
12. Bryan T.
13. Michael C.
14. Larry (Lawrence) M.
15. Nancy S.
16. Luly
17. Jessi W
18.
19.
20.

Austin: Wedding Photography Workshop - April 13th

2008-02-26T18:43:00.010-06:00

Austin: Wedding Photography Workshop
Sunday, April 13th

Belle's has put on workshops across the country. We offer hands-on help for fledgling photographers in a fun and easy atmosphere.

This workshop will be held at Dunvegan Keep, in beautiful Austin, Texas. The image above was taken by Belle's at Dunvegan Keep. To see more photos look below and visit their website. You'll find this location has been featured in bridal magazines and model shoots. Its the perfect location to learn about components of photography!

Here is an excerpt from their website: When you walk onto the grounds of Dunvegan Keep, you feel the allure of romance and adventure. This fairytale world built on an acre and a half of hill country property features several amazing medieval structures, all of which Craig Turner built himself.

The workshop will cover the following topics, then some:
* Creativity 101
* Basic Lighting
* Ghetto Lighting! (Make-shift lighting)
* The 'Edgy' Look & How to Get It
* Trash The Dress - what the hell, we'll trash one before we leave!
* Formal/ Traditional Portrait Poses
* Using Natural Light Effectively
* Basic Technical Techniques - aka figuring out how to use your camera (ISO, DOF, flash, etc)
* Adding Drama with light/ color
* Flatter Posing for Different Figures
* Composition Basics
* Q&A through the day - ask away!
* Get Great Portfolio Pieces!
* 5 Key Wedding Shots - How to get them!
* Bride Model(s) Provided
* Groom Model(s) Provided

We will have models wearing wedding gowns for this event. Depending on the class size for this event, we can have up to 4 models present (3 female, 1 male). There are separate areas where the class will be broken into smaller groups. Each group will have their own teacher and rotate. THIS WILL BE AN EXCELLENT LOCATION TO GET SOME KILLER PORTFOLIO PIECES.

***You do NOT have to be a wedding photographer to benefit from this workshop.***Components of wedding photography and other venues are very similar. We choose the model to wear a wedding gown in this case. So, if you need non-wedding help - pay attention to the area's discussed, rather than the wedding gown.

If you have attended our past workshops, you'll find that each workshop is a bit different. This workshop will have an added focus on the creative aspect of portraiture and we'll even do a trash the dress as the end.

ADDED 3/30/08: WORKSHOP SPONSORS:
SIMPLY CANVAS and MPIX have offered some kicking door prizes for attendees of this workshop.

Simply Canvas has offered each attendee a $50 certificate and one 20"x24" gallery wrap will be given away as a door prize! Wahoo!

MPIX is surprising us. :o)

NewB photogs are totally welcome! This is an intro level class - nothing to be afraid of. And for those of you that are old pros and want a day of fun or want the chance to try out some new stuff - grab your stuff and come ready to get some stunning shots!

Location: Dunvegan Keep, Austin, TX
Instructor: Mike
Time: 1pm-4pm
Date: Sunday, April 13th
Cost: Only $199 per person
Registration: CLICK HERE to register!

Dallas, TX: Intro to Wedding Photography 101- March 2nd, 2008

2008-02-10T13:35:00.001-06:00

INTRO TO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY 101
MARCH 2nd, 2008

Belle's Photography has put on workshops across the country. We offer hands-on help for fledgling photographers in an easy atmosphere. We also offer workshops as inexpensively as possible to make it so any photographer that wants to learn, can.

This workshop will be held near Dallas, TX. The workshop is open to photographers aspiring toward wedding photography and bridal portraiture. There is no need to have already ventured out into wedding photography as this is an entry level class.

The workshop will cover the following topics, then some:
* Ceremony Expectations & Issues
* Working with Real Brides & Grooms
* Wedding Packages & Info
* The Basics of Booking a Wedding
* Do's & Don'ts of Wedding Photography
* Creative Bridal Posing
* Formal/ Traditional Portrait Poses
* Using Natural Light Effectively
* Basic Technical Techniques - aka figuring out how to use your camera (ISO, DOF, flash, etc)
* Adding Drama with light/ color
* Flatter Posing for Different Figures
* Basics of Alter Shots
* Basics of Shadows and Light
* Basics of 2nd Shooting
* 5 Key Wedding Shots - How to get them!
* Get Great Portfolio Pieces
* Model(s) Provided

We will have a model wearing a designer wedding gown for this event. THIS WILL BE AN EXCELLENT LOCATION TO GET SOME KILLER PORTFOLIO PIECES.

***You do NOT have to be a wedding photographer to benefit from this workshop.***

Components of wedding photography and other venues are very similar. We choose the model to wear a wedding gown in this case. So, if you need non-wedding help - pay attention to the area's discussed, rather than the wedding gown. We've also had photogs attend several workshops who wanted to have a fun afternoon shooting, trying new things - if that describes you, that's OK too.

Comments from past students on this class:

"Great intro to wedding workshop today. Gorgeous model. Mike, thanks for sharing your knowledge." - Rusty, Ft. Worth, TX

"Sure enjoyed the workshop today. Great group of fellow students. Beautiful model and very good makeup artist. Beautiful location. Overall just a great day...Thanks to everyone that helped answer my numerous questions and offered advice on equipment, marketing, and business practices in general. And a BIG THANKS to Mike...I learned a lot at the preshoot concerning marketing, etc. That info alone was worth cost of the workshop." -Ben, Roanoke, TX

"I've been keeping up with the posts on Holly's site of the workshop and have to tell you that those (student) photos are amazing! Wow, I'm so looking forward to the SA workshop. Thanks to all for posting the photos and sharing with us. It seems like a good time was had by all." -Sergio, Comfort, TX

"We took the San Antonio Class and it was worth the time and money. Thanks to Holly and Mike" - Marvin, Plano, TX

"I enjoyed the San Antonio class so much that now I'm trying to figure out if there is a way I can afford to drive up to Dallas as well as pay for the class." -Angel, San Antonio, TX

REGISTRATION INFO:

Location: Dallas Area, TX (exact location to be disclosed after registration)
Instructor: Mike
Time: 1pm-4pm
Date: Sunday, March 2nd, 2008
Registration: $225 per person
Registration: CLICK HERE to register!

Please note: This event is 1st come 1st served. When the event is full, no one else will be admitted. Any and all funds will be returned if you enroll after the event is full. The registration fee is non-refundable, non-transferable without permission. If the event is canceled by Belle's, all registration fees will be refunded. In the case of inclement weather, please contact the studio for updates.

San Antonio Update

2008-01-25T13:25:00.000-06:00

Okay, we've got locations, times, and model worked out... and we've done our best to make sure everyone is on the same page. But, in case anyone is still wondering, here's the info:

Wedding 101:
1:30 - 4:00, San Antonio Botanical Gardens
Model: Luba
We'll meet up by the Auld House, and will be ready to go rain or shine...

JumpStart Class:
10:00-1:00
Comfort Suites
(meet up in the lobby)
8021 Alamo Downs Parkway
San Antonio, TX, US, 78238

I think we're good... Any questions, feel free to give us a call. Just rember, we're not from San Antonio either - so our directions probably aren't any better than yours. :o)

See you all soon!

San Antonio Classes

2008-01-08T18:54:00.001-06:00

Just giving a heads up - there is only 1 more opening in the SA Jump Start Class. And only 2 slots left for the SA Wedding Photography Workshop. We have decided to limit the class size on both of these. We'll be doing a shoot in SA that weekend and thought hanging out with a small group of you guys sounded like a lot more fun than having hordes of people with multiple teachers, like we usually do. So - SA is gonna be small and sweet! See you there!

Houston Wedding & Bridal Photography Workshop - Jan 13th, 2008

2007-12-15T14:58:00.000-06:00

This is the same workshop as San Antonio (see post directly below). Here are the details for Houston:

HOUSTON WEDDING WORKSHOP
Location:TBA
Instructor: Mike
Time: 1-4pm (Jump Start Class 4-8pm)
Date: Jan 13th, 2008
Cost: $250 per student
Registration: CLOSED

* Please note: A minimum of 10 students needed for this workshop. You will NOT be charged the registration fee until all 10 registration forms are returned. Please watch your email for updates on the Houston class.

San Antonio Wedding & Bridal Photography Workshop - Jan 27th, 2008

2007-12-15T14:51:00.000-06:00

SAN ANTONIO, TX WEDDING & BRIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

SAN ANTONIO, TX WEDDING & BRIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
SAN ANTONIO, TX - JANUARY 27th, 2008
(sign up early and save $$ - details below)

Belle's has put on workshops across the country. We offer hands-on help for fledgling photographers in an easy atmosphere. We also offer workshops as inexpensively as possible to make it so any photographer that wants to learn, can.

This workshop will be held in San Antonio, TX. The workshop is open to photographers aspiring toward wedding photography and bridal portraiture.

The workshop will cover the following topics, then some:
* Creative Posing
* Using Off-Camera Lighting
* Formal/ Traditional Portrait Poses
* Using Natural Light Effectively
* Basic Technical Techniques - aka figuring out how to use your camera (ISO, DOF, flash, etc)
* Adding Drama with light/ color
* Flatter Posing for Different Figures
* Creative Composition
* Get Great Portfolio Pieces
* Basics of Shadows and Light
* Basics of 2nd Shooting
* Marketing - How to Get Clients
* 5 Key Wedding Shots - How to get them!
* Model(s) Provided

We will have a model wearing a designer wedding gown for this event. THIS WILL BE AN EXCELLENT LOCATION TO GET SOME KILLER PORTFOLIO PIECES.

*You do NOT have to be a wedding photographer to benefit from this workshop.*

Components of wedding photography and other venues are very similar. We choose the model to wear a wedding gown in this case. So, if you need non-wedding help - pay attention to the area's discussed, rather than the wedding gown.

And it may be possible to have 2 models depending on how many people sign up - which means different gowns and more portfolio pieces. So grab your stuff and come ready to get some stunning shots!

Comments from past students on this class:

"Great intro to wedding workshop today. Gorgeous model. Mike, thanks for sharing your knowledge." - Rusty, Ft. Worth, TX

"Sure enjoyed the workshop today. Great group of fellow students. Beautiful model and very good makeup artist. Beautiful location. Overall just a great day...Thanks to everyone that helped answer my numerous questions and offered advice on equipment, marketing, and business practices in general. And a BIG THANKS to Mike...I learned a lot at the preshoot concerning marketing, etc. That info alone was worth cost of the workshop." -Ben, Roanoke, TX

"I've been keeping up with the posts on Holly's site of the workshop and have to tell you that those (student) photos are amazing! Wow, I'm so looking forward to the SA workshop. Thanks to all for posting the photos and sharing with us. It seems like a good time was had by all." -Sergio, Comfort, TX

"We took the San Antonio Class and it was worth the time and money.
Thanks to Holly and Mike" - Marvin, Plano, TX

"I enjoyed the San Antonio class so much that now I'm trying to figure out if there is a way I can afford to drive up to Dallas as well as pay for the class." -Angel, San Antonio, TX

REGISTRATION INFO:

Location: San Antonio, TX
Instructor: Mike
Time: 1pm-4pm
Date: Sunday, January 27th, 2008
Reg. Registration: $225 per person
Registration: CLICK HERE to register!

SA CLASS IS 1/2 FULL AS OF TODAY!

Please note: This event is 1st come 1st served. When the event is full, no one else will be admitted. Any and all funds will be returned if you enroll after the vent, it is non-refundable, non-transferable. If the event is canceled by Belle's, all registration fees wclass has reached capacity. Due to the nature of this eill be refunded. In the case of inclement weather, please contact the studio for updates.

2 Additional January Workshops

2007-12-15T14:42:00.000-06:00

After some discussion (and some begging - lol!) Belle's has added 2 additional January Workshops. Immediately following the San Antonio Jump Start there will be the Wedding & Bridal Workshop listed below.

There was also a request to do the Jump Start and the Weddings & Bridal Workshop in Houston, TX. We put out a feeler for this class and have already received some registration forms back. Since travel expenses to Houston are over 3x as much to get to any other location, we have to have a minimum of 10 students for that class to go ahead.

Workshop info will be posted momentarily.

Princess Portrait Paintings

2007-12-02T20:10:00.000-06:00

Well, Belle's has been playing with dramatic lighting for a while...as you probably already know. lol. Anyway, we have been trying to play with dramatic light and vibrant colors while offering a formal portrait session to children - something you can't get in too many places. Anyway, this is what we came up with.

The Princess Portrait Painting. It's a portrait session for little girls where Belle's supplies an Austrian Crystal tiara and takes a series of formal shots. After the session, a Belle's artist selects one image to create into a digital painting, like the one posted here.

I LOVE shooting these types of sessions. They are so specialized and so much fun at the same time. Plus, after actually getting it printed on canvas, our artist will go back and retouch it with a paintbrush and add touches of 24K gold accents on the tiara. How cool is that?!?!

Booked 11 sessions since took class with Belle's

2007-11-26T08:53:00.001-06:00

Sometimes we hear back from people that took a class with Belle's. Louis took the Jump Start Class -Earn More Money Class a couple of weeks ago. Here is his note:

Well, it's been 2 weeks since the class, but I thought I'd update you on what I've done since.
I've been really busy with advertising and passing out "coupons", and today I've signed my 11th booking that will take me until January 19th.

I really-really-really am so glad that I went to this class. My biggest hurdle was advertising. I was actually going to go on vacation Jan. 19th, but with what I'll make that day, I can postpone it another day ;) - Louis, Dallas, TX

2008 Workshop Schedule

2007-11-23T11:37:00.000-06:00

Belle's 2008 Workshop Schedule has been posted in the left column of this blog. There are 5 different workshops in different locations on the roster. We do not plan on being able to offer repeat classes in neighboring cities, as we were able to offer in 2007. So, if something floats your boat - be sure to sign up!

And, as always, Belle's also offers private tutorials. Feel free to contact the studio for more information.

MAKE MORE MONEY - THE CLASS - 1/27/08

2007-11-23T08:39:00.000-06:00

JUMP START! THE EARN MORE MONEY CLASS
January 27th, 2008
San Antonio, TX

As a photographer, I personally know how difficult it can be to get your photography business up and running from the beginning. When you first start out in photography, its REALLY hard to get going. Why? Because you have no clients, you have no reputation, and you have no means of attracting clients. In other words - you have no way to make any money.

This class will present you with ideas that you can use immediately that will greatly help your photography business make more money. Successful photographers are also successful at marketing their business. You can be the greatest photographer in the world, but no one will know about it if you fail to market yourself.

Within a photography business there are limitless ways to make more money once you understand how to market your business and get new clients. Once you have new clients, the way you present them with purchasing options affects how much money they hand you. Learn how to make a $1,000+ sale from a regular portrait session. Learn what to do and what to say that leads to getting more cash in your hands. And most importantly, learn what NOT to say that will stifle your sales.

The class covers the following topics:

What you Must do from Day # 1 to Make More Money
Real Customer Service (The Customer Is NOT Always Right)
Attracting New Customers
Growing your Business
Ground Zero - How to get your 1st client
Profiting from The Internet
How to Attract High Paying Clients
How to Get Hot Word of Mouth Referrals (its not what you think)
The 1 Word that Can Take your Business to the Next Level
Getting Paid More for Less Time
How to Turn Portrait Packages into Goldmines
NewB Issues & Concerns
How to Get Your Client to Hand You More Money
Closing the Sale
The Importance of Aesthetics
Packaging for More Profits
Plus More!

**Whether you photograph weddings, children, families, pets, seniors, etc - this class will help you learn how to make more money.**

Feedback from students who recently attended this class:

Thanks Mike for the great information. The workshop content was exactly as you described it and was exactly what I was hoping for. Very good information. It was very practical advice, but at the same time quite inspiring. Now, I just need to get after it and get serious about getting things going like I should have been doing all along...Great day all around. I highly recommend any future workshops offered by Belles. - Darren Irving, TX

Thanks for the informative session. It sure did gave me some great ideas for advertising and attracting/bringing in new clients. -Louis, Dallas, TX

It was a good seminar, and well worth attending. I don't know how Mike can manage to get so much information in three hours, but I took lots of notes. -Tom, Ft. Worth, TX

I'll add my endorsement to those already made here .. . it was tremendously helpful, especially the fact that Mike kept talking about intent, and also the information on pricing. It was well worth the money, and the drive time ;) - Cindy, The Woodlands, TX.

Lunch will be included with this class. Location details will be posted closer to the date of the class. Sign up ASAP. There are capacity limitations. So sign up early to make sure you get a seat.

Details:
Date: January 27th, 2008
Location: San Antonio, TX
Time: 12:00pm-3:00pm
Regular Registration: $149 per person
To Registration: CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.

Please note: This event is 1st come 1st served. When the event is full, no one else will be admitted. Any and all funds will be returned if you enroll after the class has reached capacity. Due to the nature of this event, it is non-refundable, non-transferable. If the event is canceled by Belle's, all registration fees will be refunded. In the case of inclement weather, please contact the studio for updates.

TULSA WEDDING & BRIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

2007-11-12T17:17:00.000-06:00

TULSA WEDDING & BRIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

TULSA, OK - JANUARY 20th, 2008
(sign up early and save $$ - details below)

Belle's has put on workshops across the country. We offer hands-on help for fledgling photographers in an easy atmosphere. We also offer workshops as inexpensively as possible to make it so any photographer that wants to learn, can.

This workshop will be held in Tulsa, OK. The workshop is open to photographers aspiring toward wedding photography and bridal portraiture.

The workshop will cover the following topics, then some:
* Creative Posing
* Using Off-Camera Lighting
* Formal/ Traditional Portrait Poses
* Using Natural Light Effectively
* Basic Technical Techniques - aka figuring out how to use your camera (ISO, DOF, flash, etc)
* Adding Drama with light/ color
* Flatter Posing for Different Figures
* Creative Composition
* Get Great Portfolio Pieces
* Basics of Shadows and Light
* Basics of 2nd Shooting
* Marketing - How to Get Clients
* 5 Key Wedding Shots - How to get them!
* Model(s) Provided

We will have a model wearing a designer wedding gown for this event. THIS WILL BE AN EXCELLENT LOCATION TO GET SOME KILLER PORTFOLIO PIECES.

*You do NOT have to be a wedding photographer to benefit from this workshop.*

Components of wedding photography and other venues are very similar. We choose the model to wear a wedding gown in this case. So, if you need non-wedding help - pay attention to the area's discussed, rather than the wedding gown.

And it may be possible to have 2 models depending on how many people sign up - which means different gowns and more portfolio pieces. So grab your stuff and come ready to get some stunning shots!

Comments from past students on this class:

"Great intro to wedding workshop today. Gorgeous model. Mike, thanks for sharing your knowledge." - Rusty, Ft. Worth, TX

"Sure enjoyed the workshop today. Great group of fellow students. Beautiful model and very good makeup artist. Beautiful location. Overall just a great day...Thanks to everyone that helped answer my numerous questions and offered advice on equipment, marketing, and business practices in general. And a BIG THANKS to Mike...I learned a lot at the preshoot concerning marketing, etc. That info alone was worth cost of the workshop." -Ben, Roanoke, TX

"I've been keeping up with the posts on Holly's site of the workshop and have to tell you that those (student) photos are amazing! Wow, I'm so looking forward to the SA workshop. Thanks to all for posting the photos and sharing with us. It seems like a good time was had by all." -Sergio, Comfort, TX

"We took the San Antonio Class and it was worth the time and money.
Thanks to Holly and Mike" - Marvin, Plano, TX

"I enjoyed the San Antonio class so much that now I'm trying to figure out if there is a way I can afford to drive up to Dallas as well as pay for the class." -Angel, San Antonio, TX

REGISTRATION INFO:

Location: Tulsa, OK
Instructor: Mike
Time: 12pm-3pm
Date: Sunday, January 20th, 2008
Early Registration: Only $199 per person when you register prior to 12/15/07!
Reg. Registration: $249 per person (12/15/07 and after)
Registration: CLICK HERE to register!

Please note: This event is 1st come 1st served. When the event is full, no one else will be admitted. Any and all funds will be returned if you enroll after the vent, it is non-refundable, non-transferable. If the event is canceled by Belle's, all registration fees wclass has reached capacity. Due to the nature of this eill be refunded. In the case of inclement weather, please contact the studio for updates.

Feedback From The Marketing Class

2007-11-12T17:11:00.000-06:00

Well, we had people drive in from all over TX and OK for this one. We had fun, laughed, and learned about promoting your photo biz and getting clients. Here is some feedback from the students in this class:

Thanks Mike for the great information. The workshop content was exactly as you described it and was exactly what I was hoping for. Very good information. It was very practical advice, but at the same time quite inspiring. Now, I just need to get after it and get serious about getting things going like I should have been doing all along...Great day all around. I highly recommend any future workshops offered by Belles. - Darren Irving, TX

Thanks for the informative session. It sure did gave me some great ideas for advertising and attracting/bringing in new clients. -Louis, Dallas, TX

It was a good seminar, and well worth attending. I don't know how Mike can manage to get so much information in three hours, but I took lots of notes. -Tom, Ft. Worth, TX

I'll add my endorsement to those already made here .. . it was tremendously helpful, especially the fact that Mike kept talking about intent, and also the information on pricing. It was well worth the money, and the drive time ;) - Cindy, The Woodlands, TX.

As always, we are glad to hear the feedback! Thanks for coming!

New Site, New Format!

2007-10-22T20:12:00.000-05:00

Well, we finally made the jump... Belle's has a spankin' new website for all of our clients! Unfortunately, it also made the gateway page we had for everyone here (our photographer friends) utterly obsolete. So, now we've got a brand new blog for you guys to keep track of us on!

In making the transition though, we lost the postings with all of our old workshops. Maybe if I feel ambitious one night I'll try to move them over here - but I don't see that happening anytime soon. Rest assured though, we'll continue to offer "Dramatic Lighting" and "Wedding Photography" workshops as time and interest permit. Watch this page for announcements.

Next up though, we're offering something new. This time we're focusing on the business aspect of a studio. Check it out below...

Jump Start Your Biz!

2007-10-22T20:01:00.000-05:00

Caution - Holly had a crazy idea! lol. Mike and I have been tossing around the idea of having a Jump Start Your Business Class. I thought I would check general interest before posting all the details - and its been checked and details have been listed below.

Basically, when you first start out in photography, its REALLY hard to get going. I don't know about you, but for me it was like riding a bike up hill - with no wheels...until I figured a few things out. There are things you can do - that you have to do - to get your business going. If you fail to do them, most people burn-out and give up.

Most people don't go from Day #1 - Buy Camera...to Day #2 - Photograph the Kennedy's. The business just isn't that simple. And competition is fierce - especially when you 1st get started.

There are ideas you can implement right away that will greatly help your business get going from a totally stalled position. So I was thinking about offering a class on giving your biz a jump start - aka the defibrillator class. lol.

I was thinking it would cover the topics below and then some:

What you Must do from Day # 1 to Succeed
Real Customer Service
Attracting Customers
Growing your Business
Ground Zero - How to get your 1st client
How to Attract Higher Paying Clients
The 1 Word that Can Take your Business to the Next Level
Getting Paid, Pricing, and NewB Concerns
Getting the Most out of your Packages
How to Get Your Client to Give you More Money
Closing the Sale
This List could go on and on...

Lunch will be included with this one, too! Location and details have been posted below. Sign up ASAP. There are capacity limitations. So sign up early to make sure you get a seat.

Details:
Date: November 11, 2007
Location: Spaghetti Warehouse, 1815 N. Market, Dallas
Time: 12:00pm-3:00pm
Cost: $99 per person
Registration: CLICK HERE TO REGISTER and make sure you let me know what type of photography you are interested in and how many years (months) you have been in business. There is a little note sections where you can write it.

Please note: This event is 1st come 1st served. When the event is full, no one else will be admitted. Any and all funds will be returned if you enroll after the class has reached capacity. Due to the nature of this event, it is non-refundable, non-transferable. If the event is canceled by Belle's, all registration fees will be refunded. In the case of inclement weather, please contact the studio for updates.