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lifeXpressions photography voted The Best of Fort Myers 2009

Terrilyn — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:41:11 +0000

*toot* *toot*

We’d like to interrupt your regularly scheduled blog surfing for a little tooting of our own horn…

Lifexpressions Photography has been selected for the 2009 Best of Fort Myers Award in the Photography category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA).

The USCA “Best of Local Business” Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

THANK YOU! I am honored.

Edison Festival of Lights Parade | Downtown Fort Myers Photography

Terrilyn — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 18:43:35 +0000

Happy Sunday! We had such a fabulous time during the Festival of Lights celebration in downtown Fort Myers last night. The photo series above was taken while we waited (sometimes not so) patiently for the parade to start. It seems my daughter has entered a ‘Take my picture Mommy!” phase which, after 3 years of bribing and whining, is totally ok with me. Heck, even her silly cheeseball faces are welcomed and encouraged!

The 5K runners were seriously impressive. I was crouched down near the finish line watching the runners round their final corner, I admire their stamina, I don’t think I could do it!

Runner 261, you look entirely too happy to have just ran 4+K, I’m thinking maybe that smile is because you see the finish line over my head. *giggle* Lookin’ good ladies and gentlemen, congratulations to all! Don’t worry, somehow I managed to avoid getting run over.

Little Livie spent much of her time stuck to Papa like glue. Everyone who knows me, knows that I’m an emotional person, I think you almost have to be to do what I do. But seeing my Daddy hold my baby girl always makes me mushy.

After some exploration of the local crafts being sold and displayed it was (in the words of my 8 yr old) FINALLY time for the parade to start. It really wasn’t that long but at 8 years old 20 minutes seems like a lifetime!

The police motorcycle stunts were amazing! You could feel the wind from the bikes brush against you as they criss crossed and made their way down the street. Great show guys! I wish I had more photos of your stunts but you were just too fast to focus on in the dark! I did however catch this dare devil coasting down the street. You sir, seriously impressed my youngest boy – shame on you! That child does not need any encouragement! *giggle*I added a little vintage touch to the image, it looks like something right out of an old newspaper.

Being the impatient mother that I am, I finally got tired of sitting there waiting to see my own son come marching down the street so I did what any other mother would do. I tracked him down and embarassed him by taking his picture in front of all of his friends. *giggle* I know, I’m evil aren’t I? Even though this is his 5th year in band, this was his first time joining in with the marching band and he looked so handsome, so ya see, I just had to! Totally justified if I do say so myself.

One final note for my photographer friends, the 5D Mark II totally rocked my world last night! All the parade images were captured long after sunset using just my trusty 5D markII, my 50mm 1.4, and the available street lighting. For referance, the image of my son in uniform was shot at 1/125@f2.8 ISO 6400 with just one street light behind me to illuminate his face a bit. Rock on Canon, you know I love you!!

Introducing Sydney {Then & Now}

Terrilyn — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 13:00:59 +0000

Sydney and her family are very special to me. I first met Sydney in ’06 and I knew then and there I had met a very special family. Their love for Sydney, and each other, was evident. I felt privileged to have been welcomed into their lives. I’ve since photographed little Sydney on numerous occasions and was honored with the opportunity to photograph their newest daughter Sienna shortly after her arrival…I’ve been included in so many magical moments for this family it seems only natural that their images would be among those to grace the pages of The Big Book of Babies.

Allow me to introduce to you…

Sydney {then} as published in The Big Book of Babies:

While I wish I could say I have more recent {now} photos of Sydney, her family has since moved to North Carolina which has limited our time together some what. To get a little peek of how adorable Sydney is now (and to meet her adorable sister Sienna) you’ll need to pop over to my post featuring their visit back to the sunshine state last Janurary. Beyond that, well, you’ll have to check back to the blog in a few months when they make their way back to Florida for our annual session.

We asked Sydney’s Mom to answer a few questions for the blog, here’s what she had to say…

What is your favorite weekend activity to do with the family?

“I honestly love a day at home with the girls where we can just play together on our own schedule. Having to get out the door with two little ones can sometimes be a stressful task.”

The most requested toy in my house right now is…

“Whatever the baby is playing with! Somehow that item magically becomes very interesting to Sydney as well.”

One thing I hope to never forget is…

“how my girls smell after their bath.”

If there were 25 hours in a day, I would spend that extra hour…

“Playing with Sydney & Sienna of course!”

What I’m most looking forward to in 2008…

“Hopefully working a few things out with my business so I can spend more time with the girls”

(Check out their adorable new children’s clothing line; www.fliggity.com!)

What do you love about lifeXpressions? (Hey, you know you would ask too!)

“I seriously love the creativity and the quality of the pictures – I don’t know what your ‘secret’ is but I can’t find anything like it here in Charlotte!”"

Introducing Dominic {Then & Now}

Terrilyn — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 02:05:25 +0000

I find it quite an honor that this family has chosen me to document their most special moments time and time again over the course of the last almost five years now. It’s really no surprise that the editors of The Big Book of Babies decided little Dominic should grace their pages not once, but twice! In this first image little Dominic was only 6 months old and barely able to sit without support. The second image featured in the book shows a very excited and happy little 1 year old during our annual holiday session.

Dominic {then} as published in The Big Book of Babies:

and here is little Dominic {now}:

and one of Dominic with his beautiful Mommy…

Introducing Jack {Then & Now}

Terrilyn — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:00:37 +0000

I can say I’ve know Jack since before he was born.

I first met Jack’s Mommy and Daddy a little more than a year ago now for their New Beginnings Session. Their image showcased in The Big Book of Babies was a result of their subsequent newborn session. Jack is a big brother now and just bursting with energy, evidence included below for your viewing pleasure.

We asked Jack’s Mom to answer a few questions for the blog, here’s what she had to say…

What are your child’s favorite books to read?

“Anything with airplanes or boats.”

Where do you shop for women’s clothing, you know, the kind of clothes that make you feel wonderful and don’t scream “teenager” or “mom”?

“Macy’s Dillards, Banana Republic, Saks Off 5th Ave, Puddy ‘n Pearl, and Mollie Montgomery for traditional items”

ha ha ha I think I’ve finally found someone who likes to shop as much as I do. Good taste too, hm, maybe I’ve found a new shopping buddy!

Photographs are important to me because…

“They document memories, windows into our pasts – where we’ve been, who we were with, what we were doing, expressions…”

My favorite little escape from parenting is…

“A night out with my husband – to enjoy a nice dinner and each other over a glass bottle of wine in peace and quiet.”

Do you have any special plans for this summer?

“Going to a Buffett concert for sure!”

What do you love about lifeXpressions? (Hey, you know you would ask too!)

“Your ability to capture the ‘everyday’ shots and turn them into something beautiful that sends sparks to your heart and will be cherished forever! THANK YOU!!”

Introducing Aidan & Ashton {Then and Now}

Terrilyn — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:00:40 +0000

Two totally adorable toddlers – yep TWINS! I always loved the thought of having twins, even though my own chance of ever having twins rested somewhere between zero and ziltch. ha ha Well, let me tell ya, when I left their home after our session together I walked away with a new appreciation for what parents of multiples must go through on a daily basis. My hats off to you guys, that is seriously tiring work!

Allow me to introduce to you…

Aidan & Ashton {then} as published in The Big Book of Babies:

and here are Aidan & Ashton {now}:

So cute! They were just as fun (and just as tiring) as when I first met them two years before! Thanks for coming out to play with my guys, I hope I’ll see you both again very soon!

Introducing Lauren {Then and Now}

Terrilyn — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 09:51:02 +0000

Sorry for the delay in the Then & Now postings gang, things got a little backed up for a while there but we seem to be back on track now and I have some very important little Big Book of Babies stars to showcase in the coming weeks! This week I’d like to introduce little Miss Lauren to you. She first stole my heart more than two years ago now during a beach session that to this day showcases some of my favorite sunset images of all time. Since then I’ve had the joy of watching her blossom into this adorable spunky little preschooler with a heart of gold.

Here is Lauren {then} as published in The Big Book of Babies:

and here she is {now}:

We asked Lauren’s Mom to answer a few questions for the blog, here’s what she had to say:

What is your favorite children’s boutique?

“Incredible Me! & Giggle Moon“

Photographs are important to me because…

“I enjoy seeing all the changes the kids go thru. It also brings back wonderful memories of a particular time in my life and their life.”

One thing I hope to always remember…

“The way it felt to see and hold my children for the first time.”

A night out with the children? It can be done! What is your favorite child-friendly restaurant?

“Bayfront in Venetian Village, out on the patio.The kids love to look over the railing and watch for dolphins.

Mom’s need TLC too, where do you go to be pampered?

“Spa Blue, Naples”

An awesome, child-friendly place that theres may not have heard of is…

“Sun -n- Fun Lagoon (Naples) and My Gym (Naples)”

What do you love about lifeXpressions? { Hey, you know you would ask too! }.

“Working with you! You NEVER hurry the session which is so important when dealing with children. You are always available for questions on ordering, wardrobe, etc. And of course, LOVE the photos and slideshows!!”

Note from Terrilyn: Thank you Mom! I have to say you have been a complete JOY to work with too! I’m looking forward to seeing you all very soon and meeting the newest member of the family!!

Introducing Juliana {Then & Now}

Terrilyn — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 23:12:44 +0000

I first had the opportunity Juliana more than two years ago now. She was an adorable, spunky, little princess with her own pink jeep and beautiful jewels, a complete doll baby! She’s grown a lot over the last few years but, I’m sure you’ll agree, she is as precious as ever! Thank you for coming to play with me again Juliana!

Here is Juliana {then} as published in The Big Book of Babies:

and here she is {now}:

What a beautiful little princess she’s become!

We asked Juliana’s Mom to answer a few questions for the blog, here’s what she had to say:

What are your child’s favorite books to read?

“Anything Dr. Suess – Lately it’s been In a People House and The Foot Book.”

Where do you shop for women’s clothing, you know, the kind of clothes that make you feel wonderful and don’t scream “teenager” or “mom”?

“Do those places exist? I guess my favorites are Macy’s and Victoria’s Secret Online/Catalog”

Photographs are important to me because…

“they tell a story and capture the essence of the moment.”

We are always trying to feed our children healthy snacks, the trick seems to be getting them to eat them! What are your child‘s favorite healthy snacks?

“Fruits and vegetables – i.e. grapes, tomatoes, apples, carrots”

My favorite local park is…

“Estero Community Park.”

What do you love about lifeXpressions? { Hey, you know you would ask too! }.

“You! I also love your passion for what you do. I love how you make a client feel good about themselves – i.e. blogs, posting their photos on your website. Thanks for all you do for our children.”

Note from Terrilyn: You know, getting to know your child’s unique little personality, and being able to capture a little piece of their spirit – something that you’ll be able to look back on long after she’s all grown up – well, that really is my pleasure. I am truly honored when a parent chooses me to capture these moments for them, thank you!

Introducing Paisley {Then & Now}

Terrilyn — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 20:28:55 +0000

I first had the opportunity to work with Paisley when she was just a few days old. As a member of the Just One Year program she’s become a fairly regular star here on the blog. Now at a year old she just recently graduated from the JOY program, I have to say, I am going to miss our regular play dates. It has been so much fun watching her blossom into this beautiful, playful little lady and Mom always has the CUTEST outfits for her!

Here is Paisley {then} as published in The Big Book of Babies:

and here she is {now}

PEEK-A-BOO! We sure had fun that day!

We asked Paisley’s Mom to answer a few questions for the blog, here’s what she had to say:

What is your favorite children’s boutique?

“Children’s Couture, Fort Myers”

Photographs are important to me because…

“They Capture the moment that is gone in the blink of an eye. My baby is only as small as she is today. Tomorrow she will be bigger.”

A night out with the children? It can be done! What is your favorite child-friendly restaurant?

“First Watch – We get a cool placemat, crayons, and our very own cup. Of course the pancakes are our favorite! Mimi’s Cafe’ is great too. Their kids meal comes with oreo dirt dessert complete with worms! (Gummy ones, of course!)”

Mom’s need TLC too, where do you go to be pampered?

“Spada, Fort Myers”

Often family traditions are handed down through the years, others we start ourselves. What are your favorite family traditions?

“Family dinners, letters from Santa, church on Sundays. A very specific one, we save our Christmas cards & every night at dinner during our blessing we say a prayer for family.”

What do you love about lifeXpressions? { Hey, you know you would ask too! }.

“Aside from Terrilyn being an outstanding photographer ( she really captures the everyday love). I really think lifeXpressions is a first class operation. I love the little things: the Christmas ornament, the accordion mini books, the stuffed dog goodie-bag she brought to the promotional mini sessions, even the cute tissue paper that comes in the photo boxes. My husband jokes that you are like chocolate – once you get a little you just can’t stop!!”

Note from Terrilyn: Alright, that seriously has to be the BEST compliment I’ve ever received – comparing me to chocolate – ha ha ha I love it!! Thank you for your sweet, sweet words. I can’t wait to see you all again!

Introducing Kevin {Then & Now}

Terrilyn — Wed, 28 May 2008 16:35:53 +0000

I first had the opportunity to work with Kevin when he was just a little tot, not quite big enough to walk on his own down the beach. He’s certainly come a long way. Spunky, sweet, and a totally adorable, this little guy will completely steal your heart.

Here is Kevin {then} as published in The Big Book of Babies:

and here he is {now}

We asked Kevin and his Mom to answer a few questions for the blog, I’ll include some of their answers below.

What is your favorite weekend activity?

{Answered by Kevin} “I like to go to the driving range with my Dad!”

What is the coolest toy in your house right now?

{Answered by Kevin} “A Truck! That could be any one of a thousand we have.” {Ad Lib by Mom}

Photographs: Classic, timeless…BLACK & WHITE or bold, breathtaking…COLOR?

“Kevin has the most amazing blue eyes – I can’t help but love to see them in color!”

Finish this statement… One thing I hope to never forget…

“How happy my children are to see me every morning and whenever we’ve been apart, and how happy I am to see them too.”

What are you looking most forward to in the coming year?

“{Answered by Kevin} Pirate Camp! – Mom is looking forward to a successful heart surgery of her best friend on April 10th. I will be glad when that is over. She is 35 years old with two small children.”

Note from Terrilyn … your friend and her family are in my prayers. Please feel free to reply to your post and update us. I hope her surgery was a success!

How do you pass the time on those long family trips?

“I Spy! Kevin always spys something orange – his current favorite color.”

What do you love about lifeXpressions? { Hey, you know you would ask too! }.

“Terrilyn! Your talent is amazing. I can’t tell you how many people walk in my house and are “blown away” by your art! You are a beautiful person and my family is lucky to have met you and I hope you will watch my family grow for many, many years. You are a very special part of our lives – thank you for everything – and always being – Just You…Wonderful!”

Note from Terrilyn: You guys are pretty wonderful too! Thank you for your sweet, sweet words.