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Welcome!

Welcome to the blog of my latest work!  I am Tara, owner and photographer of Chixie and Honey Artistic Imagery.  The curious and whimsical name of my company is credited to my young daughter.  When I heard her name her little stuffed chicks "Chixie" and "Honey" I knew that those names exactly fit how I wanted my business to feel...fun, funky, whimsical and curious.

I am a mom, a wife, a daughter and a friend.  I am a photographer.  I have always been artsy, and started my love of photography a little over 10 years ago while taking a black and white film class in college.

I have the perfect job.  I get to capture the tiny little toes and fingers fresh in this world. The pouts, the smiles, the laughs...I cherish it all.  I aim to capture the soul in pictures.  I work hard at what I do and feel so lucky to be able to get a glimpse into my client's lives.  

Take a look around and enjoy!  I look forward to working with you.

Catching Up | Toledo Children’s Photographer

January 21, 2010

I still have a ton of sessions to blog from 2009 so I thought I’d take one off the list. :)  Life is crazy, as usual, especially when you have two small kids. :)  We have been battling the sickies and then pink eye, yuck!  I have never had pink eye…that is until last week.  It is the WORST!  No contacts for a week for me!  I’m completely blind and my best friend jokes that we could go and burn ants with my glasses with the sun.  Except I don’t think she’s joking. ;)  

Anyway, we are all healthy now, so I think we’ll hole up  here in the house until the weather warms up. ;)  

I have so much to share, including some new designs that my kiddos have modeled for a great clothing company, so stay tuned!

Until then…..meet the D family. :)  You might recognize these pretty kids from an urban session we did last year.

 

The oldest here was telling me all about how his dad works on bones at work ;)

 

Grandma and Grandpa wanted some family photos….and I love how they turned out. (Even if middle “N” was D-O-N-E at this point, LOL!)

 

He’s happier here :)

 

Little “L”…she was the big “1″!

We have LOTS of fun on our sessions!!!!!! :)

 

Pretty Baby

 

I puffy heart this one:

 

Thanks so much D family….love spending time with you all!

 

Posted in Kids, family | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

by Chixie

9 comments

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Amanda - Tara you are so talented! I love looking at your work.January 21, 2010 - 5:54 pm

Kelly Mendoza - Just beautiful Tara! Gorgeous family and awesome images!January 21, 2010 - 6:11 pm

selena - Great pictures, they are such a cute family.January 21, 2010 - 7:45 pm

Carrie - Great pictures and I hope your family stays well for a long time.January 21, 2010 - 9:10 pm

dani - beautiful, as usual :)January 21, 2010 - 10:07 pm

Lori - I love so many of these. Especially the one with Grandma and Grandpa...the last one (what a great expression!), and the beautiful baby on the railroad tracks. Great job!!January 21, 2010 - 10:31 pm

Brad - Great pictures, Tara!January 22, 2010 - 5:53 am

Alicia - I REALLY like this session. What a beautiful family.January 28, 2010 - 1:33 am

Cari - Seriously could those kids be any cuter??!!! I love the expression in the last one, and of the Middle "n" in his "done" photo.February 5, 2010 - 2:37 am

We have a WINNER! | Toledo Ohio Photographer

January 7, 2010

I know I’ve already said it but I’ll say it again–WOW.  Some competitive people out there, LOL!

 

We have a winner folks! :)  I am so excited for everyone.

 

Here is the first prize winner: Miss Lena <3 with over 140 votes! :O  This wins her (or her mama ;) ) a mounted 11×14 of this photo plus a complimentary session in 2010!  (value of $180!)

 

Second place goes to Mr Matthew with over 80 votes. I think this constitutes a prize as well. ;)  $75 print credit  with full, regular session done in 2010.

 

 

And Third Place goes to the P family :D with over 40 votes.  They win a $25 Print Credit for a full, regular session in 2010.  

 

 

CONGRATS to you all!  And, because all of you guys are winners in my eyes…the rest of the contestants will receive 10% off your total print order when booking a full session in 2010.  Yay!

 

And one more giveaway–the random drawing.  

Taken from Random.Org

Assuming I counted right……

Susan Puffer said atshp01@live.com said:  Lovely pictures! I vote for # 19

Please contact me to claim your free session!!!

 

Thank you SO much for such awesome participation!  It was so much fun, hope you guys had fun as well!

 

Email me at chixieandhoney@hotmail.com

 

 

Posted in Contest | Tags: , , , , , , ,

by Chixie

5 comments

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Nikki Bazzoli - Miss Lena has 6 crazy aunts! Thanks Tara! It was fun, the best was hearing Lena tell everyone she knows that she was in a "photo contest" too cute!January 8, 2010 - 12:00 am

Tina - Awesome!!! Congrats to all the winners!! :0)January 8, 2010 - 12:49 am

Kristy - Thanks so very much Tara! All of you pictures are A.MAZ.ING!! You truly have be given a talent and love your "job". Thanks again. :)January 8, 2010 - 2:18 am

Lori - Great contest! Congratulations to all the winners.....especially Matthew =)January 8, 2010 - 2:22 am

Maria - That really was the best part was hearing Lena on the phone say "ya, I in a photo contest!" So cute to hear that funny 2 year old say that :) 6 crazy aunts that love her to pieces :)January 8, 2010 - 8:08 pm

WOW! | Toledo OH Photographer

January 7, 2010

You guys are AWESOME!  I have 360 votes to go through, so it’s going to be either Thursday or Friday before I announce the winner.  There are some super competitive people on here :D  which is awesome, glad you are all vying for a session with me, LOL!  (let me pretend, ok) ;) Thank you to ALL of you for the crazy voting you’ve been doing, I love it!

Can’t WAIT to see who wins!  Post coming SOON!

Posted in Contest | Tags: , , , , , ,

by Chixie

no comments

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Happy New Year! A CONTEST for you! | Toledo Area Photographer

January 2, 2010

Update:January 6–Wow!  Almost 300 votes cast!  There is only about 13 more hours to go and it is a close race!  I can’t wait to see who wins!

Update 2:  Please make sure you are casting your vote in the comments section on THIS post!  I have had lots of emails casting votes, so if you have emailed me, please comment here to cast your vote. :)  I’ve had many votes cast in other posts as well, which I will count but please try to keep it to this post only, it will make it that much easier to get a consistent vote count.  Thank you!

UPDATE: Wow!  What an awesome response this contest is getting!  I LOVE it!  Keep the votes coming! :)

 

Happy New Year to all of my fantastic followers out there!  I hope it finds you warm, safe, happy and healthy.  We rang in the New Year here at home with the Inlaw’s and it couldn’t have been more relaxing and enjoyable. 

 

 

I thought I would try something new to ring in 2010.
There are so many pictures this year that I just adore, I have such stylish and gorgeous clients! Instead of me just picking my favorite, I thought I would have you help me.

Below are some of my personal favorites of 2009. I would like you to vote on which YOU think is the best. Each has a number. You can simply comment with the number, or say why you love the picture, if you know the person(s) in the picture, etc. It’s up to you!
Those who are nominated can vote for themselves, they can email every one they know to vote for them, but please only vote once per person! The more people you ask to come by the contest and vote, the better chance you have of winning……

A complimentary session for 2010, and the winning picture on a 11×14 mount.

To sweeten the deal, I will randomly pull a number from random.org, and that comment number will ALSO win a complimentary session for 2010! So it is critical when you comment to add your real email address when it ask for it.
Are you ready?
Ready.

 

Please use the number that is to the top left of each picture.

 

 

#1.  I love me some baby in a basket. :)

 

 

#2. Going to Grandma’s

 

 

#3. Gorgeous maternity in the orchard…one of my all time fav’s.

 

 

#4. Beauty at the Beach!

 

 

#5. Soulful

 

 

#6. Up! :)

 

 

 

#7. My first wedding…they were both so gorgeous!

 

 

#8 Brothers with their Converse, LOVE this!

 

 

#9  This doesn’t need a title.  She is so beautiful and the lighting is breathtaking!

 

 

#10. Ballerina Babes

 

 

#11. I LOVE his eyes here <3

 

 

 

#12 Girly Girl

 

 

#13. Mama and son

 

 

#14. Siblings…

 

 

#15.  Love.

 

 

#16. Bad Horsie, lol

 

 

 

#17  Favorite Hat

 

 

#18  Baby lashes

 

 

#19. Fall Family :)

 

 

There you have it!  I tried to keep it to 10 but I just couldn’t!!!  I kept it under 20 though, LOL!  I’ll keep the contest open until Wednesday, January 6 at 11:59 p.m.

Posted in Contest | Tags: , , , , ,

by Chixie

358 comments

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Becky - #10 Ballerina Babes ;) And if she wins you guys have to meet up with me this summer for our own shoot! Love ya'll!January 2, 2010 - 1:14 am

Sara - I went with 9 because her face is just soooooo precious!!! It was a really, really hard choice!! All of these are excellent photos!! :)January 2, 2010 - 1:19 am

Lora - #3 without a doubt!!!! Awesome photo :)January 2, 2010 - 1:20 am

Steffany - They are all so beautiful, but I LOVE #2. The colors are amazing, the softness of his skin is super sweet and I love the detailing in the sharpness of the grass.January 2, 2010 - 1:23 am

Cari - Well I love #15!!! But the little girl in #9 just takes my breath away!!! I think she is just the cutest little thing! she has the best eyes and lashes!!!!!January 2, 2010 - 1:30 am

Nicole D. - Of course I LOVE number 1 (and number 13 since that is my SIL and nephew) BUT I am going to vote for number 9- great picture and adorable little girl!January 2, 2010 - 1:31 am

Janet - This was hard. All these photos are winners. Love your work Tara. # 12 my vote...January 2, 2010 - 1:38 am

Donna Altemann - Beautiful work Tara! Very hard to pick, but....I voted for #8!January 2, 2010 - 1:40 am

Karin - I'm choosing #2 because I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the colors and the antique suitcase. It was hard to choose because they are all so beautiful.January 2, 2010 - 1:40 am

Kimmie - #10 of course!! They are all fantastic!!!!!!!! I so wish you lived closer to me.January 2, 2010 - 1:52 am

Jaclyn Michele - This was so tough, but I finally decided on #9 - Beautiful!January 2, 2010 - 2:00 am

Erin - #3! What beautiful light!January 2, 2010 - 2:02 am

Danielle - #5..have to vote for my girl:) Great Work Tara!January 2, 2010 - 2:06 am

Jolie Starrett - No. 2 But WOW girl, you are rockin'!January 2, 2010 - 2:10 am

Marianne Gleckler - #5January 2, 2010 - 2:13 am

Stacy - #9! So cute!January 2, 2010 - 2:16 am

Sari - These are all beautiful. My vote is for #3 because it's just so breathtaking. Gorgeous mama and amazing light.January 2, 2010 - 2:18 am

Erin - #5January 2, 2010 - 2:22 am

Wendy Bolger - Yeah Lauren!January 2, 2010 - 2:24 am

linda brown - I vote#5 soulful A beautiful pictureJanuary 2, 2010 - 2:40 am

Tricia D - #13 of course! Such a breathtaking photo of me & my baby boy!!January 2, 2010 - 2:46 am

Paul D - #13January 2, 2010 - 2:49 am

Julie Hoff - Number 13!!! So sweet!January 2, 2010 - 3:16 am

Anne - #5 What a beautiful little girl!January 2, 2010 - 3:21 am

Shandy - #12 Girly Girl is soooooooooo awesome! I want one like that with my "girly girl!" LOLJanuary 2, 2010 - 3:28 am

Keshia - #5January 2, 2010 - 3:30 am

Laura - #3!January 2, 2010 - 3:32 am

Beth - Your work is too amazing to have to narrow down! If I had to pick just one it would be number 2 followed closely by number 3January 2, 2010 - 3:41 am

tamsen - #3! It's adorable!!!!January 2, 2010 - 3:46 am

Erin Sifuentes - I love #19! such cute girls :0)January 2, 2010 - 4:14 am

Hasan Tokmak - # 11...love those eyesJanuary 2, 2010 - 4:18 am

Sarah Tokmak - #11 of course :-)January 2, 2010 - 4:19 am

Diane - Hard to choose but I vote for 8January 2, 2010 - 4:38 am

Kathryn Clark - Oh my so hard to choose. I have to go with #2 Going to Grandma's House. Adorable.January 2, 2010 - 4:47 am

Jinny - Picture #11January 2, 2010 - 5:00 am

Christi - #3!!!January 2, 2010 - 5:45 am

Jen - #9 for sure! Absolutely beautiful. Talk about capturing a child's innocence!January 2, 2010 - 6:59 am

Missy Hayes - #2 of course! We had such a great time that day. Thanks Tara!January 2, 2010 - 11:45 am

Maria Parrish - #13 is my Fav!!!January 2, 2010 - 2:43 pm

Debi - #2 Goin' to Grandma's is the cutest ever. So old fashioned looking. Just love it!January 2, 2010 - 2:51 pm

Marilynn Harder - Definitely # 2. What a cutie, going to gramma's house.January 2, 2010 - 3:13 pm

Angela - #2 He has such a beautiful and innocent face!January 2, 2010 - 3:52 pm

Jess - #13 :)January 2, 2010 - 3:55 pm

Tanya - I vote for #2. Love the colors of the background and how beautiful and natural the little boy looks in this picture.January 2, 2010 - 4:19 pm

Marykay Bisson - #2 When I saw this picture my heart melted....Tara you have a true gift!!!January 2, 2010 - 4:29 pm

Tina - Well...I HAVE to vote for #10. ;0) But they are all beautiful!!!January 2, 2010 - 4:32 pm

Lori - I have two favs....so here is the first one #2 Love the colors of this pic and of course that face =)January 2, 2010 - 4:34 pm

Lori - Here is my second vote (if its not legal to vote for two that's fine....but I couldn't pick just one) #15 Its just beautiful.January 2, 2010 - 4:35 pm

Kara M - #13 without a doubt!January 2, 2010 - 4:35 pm

Sundee - #10 Ballerina Babes!!!!January 2, 2010 - 5:08 pm

Wendy Biel - #10. Ballerina Babes I thought I posted this yesterday! If there is two sorry but I dont see the first post!January 2, 2010 - 5:20 pm

Rhonda - I picked #12, it's a wonderful picture! Just enough color and that baby girl is delicious!!January 2, 2010 - 5:26 pm

Sara - Love #10!January 2, 2010 - 5:29 pm

Monica Hanlin - I vote for #10, but Tara they are ALL gorgeous! You are very talented!!!January 2, 2010 - 5:31 pm

Amy F. - They are all beautiful, but I love #2-he looks so sweet and the colors are amazing.January 2, 2010 - 5:44 pm

Jason - #2, because he like to travel.... like daddy.January 2, 2010 - 7:13 pm

Chad - #2 - Great Pic!January 2, 2010 - 7:14 pm

Melissa Yocum - 3 for sure. It's just stunning.January 2, 2010 - 7:49 pm

Erin - #10 Ballerina Babes.... Soooo cute!January 2, 2010 - 8:05 pm

Matt Hoff - My vote is for #13January 2, 2010 - 8:16 pm

Jessica - #10...Ballerina Babes!January 2, 2010 - 8:28 pm

Victor Lemm - #2 going to grandmas is the best by farJanuary 2, 2010 - 9:25 pm

jenniB - #5 beautiful. the eyes are the window to the soul, yes?January 2, 2010 - 9:28 pm

Robin Lane - I voted for # 10 Ballerina Babes!January 2, 2010 - 10:12 pm

Becky Avila - #2 Love the pic, cute little guy, awesome clothes and accessories! You have a great eye for pictures!!!!January 2, 2010 - 10:46 pm

candy kudlica - #19 They are so cute.January 2, 2010 - 11:12 pm

Char Posey - I vote for #2 - adorableJanuary 3, 2010 - 12:34 am

Roger Posey - #2January 3, 2010 - 12:35 am

Kathleen Waite - #19 I just love the fall colors!January 3, 2010 - 12:36 am

Tom - #19 What an adorable set of girls! ;-)January 3, 2010 - 12:50 am

yvonne - #2 he is a dollJanuary 3, 2010 - 12:55 am

nicole abetti - #5January 3, 2010 - 1:19 am

Katie - #10 is my vote! Great shots!January 3, 2010 - 1:21 am

Sandy - #2 matthew is so cute!!January 3, 2010 - 1:23 am

Chris - #13 So sweet. One of those moments that take your breath away.January 3, 2010 - 2:53 am

Melissa - No. 6 I just love how surreal this photo is. The colors are vivid and the lighting is great too.January 3, 2010 - 3:15 am

sandi Andrews - vote for #19January 3, 2010 - 3:21 am

doug Andrews - vote for #19January 3, 2010 - 3:22 am

jamie andrews - #19_ is soo precious. Look at those eyes love em'!January 3, 2010 - 3:23 am

Kathie - I vote for #19 so cuteJanuary 3, 2010 - 3:24 am

john - my vote is for #19January 3, 2010 - 3:25 am

jodi - Love # 10 tutu cute !January 3, 2010 - 3:26 am

s - I love them all, but there is something about #9January 3, 2010 - 3:40 am

Cindy - Wow! What amazing images. I have to say # 4 took my breath away!January 3, 2010 - 6:27 am

Ruth Chowdhury - I love them all! I vote for #19. :)January 3, 2010 - 2:30 pm

Kristy - Tara I voted for the wrong #! Sorry My vote is for #19 of course! :)January 3, 2010 - 2:37 pm

Stacie Mundo - I liked all of them, but I have to choose number 2 this timeJanuary 3, 2010 - 3:17 pm

Emily - #13, no contest! :)January 3, 2010 - 3:19 pm

Ryan - #13January 3, 2010 - 3:19 pm

barb - #13January 3, 2010 - 4:14 pm

Steve - A definite vote for #13 Preston and Tricia. A picture of pure innocence!January 3, 2010 - 5:44 pm

Jean Trosin - I vote for #13. Tricia is my granddaughter and Preston, my great grandson. I think the picture is very special!January 3, 2010 - 7:13 pm

Malena Mudse - My vote is for #19. You gotta love a family! xoxoJanuary 3, 2010 - 7:44 pm

Angie - #2January 3, 2010 - 8:03 pm

Kelly - I vote for #13!January 3, 2010 - 8:35 pm

Beulah - My vote is for #19. Nanny's girls. :)January 3, 2010 - 9:27 pm

Faith - #19January 3, 2010 - 9:30 pm

Adam - #2January 3, 2010 - 9:30 pm

Angela Mocniak - #19 the girls are so sweet, love the colors!January 3, 2010 - 9:53 pm

jodi mclear - i vote for #19 cute familyJanuary 3, 2010 - 10:00 pm

Kristi - I think #19 is the best!!January 3, 2010 - 11:01 pm

paula patteuw - #5 Hands down! (But all the pics are great!)January 4, 2010 - 12:51 am

Jen Dura - # 2January 4, 2010 - 1:09 am

Susan - #6!!!! I love this picture!January 4, 2010 - 1:28 am

brandi - 19 :)January 4, 2010 - 1:44 am

Melissa - Love the Fall and the Family! Have to go with #19January 4, 2010 - 1:44 am

DJ Cheever - Love them all but I am partial to Quinn #6...I know that personality and love it!January 4, 2010 - 1:46 am

michelle - awesome picture #2January 4, 2010 - 1:57 am

Kim - #2... love going to grandmas! Your work is amazing!January 4, 2010 - 2:02 am

jenni - #2 love the picJanuary 4, 2010 - 2:03 am

Steve - my vote is for #2January 4, 2010 - 2:06 am

Nikki Bazzoli - Of course #9 cause she is mine! Thanks Tara....my entire house is transformed due to these pics! Love them!January 4, 2010 - 2:11 am

Bill Patteuw - I vote for #5. She"s cute.January 4, 2010 - 2:13 am

carol - #19January 4, 2010 - 2:13 am

Jill - #2 I look at this picture and think it should by a cover to a magazine!January 4, 2010 - 2:27 am

Jaimi Carter - My vote is for #2 Going to Grandma's!! They are all gorgeous!!January 4, 2010 - 2:33 am

cynthia cherry - Gotta love Matthew in #2..... actually love all your pictures...you do great work!!January 4, 2010 - 2:49 am

Lainie - #18January 4, 2010 - 2:50 am

Marleen Kramer - Gorgeous photography! #18 Baby Lashes is the sweetest. He is lost in thought &/or wonderment and it was captured in this photo ;-)I need those lashes!!January 4, 2010 - 2:57 am

Bonnie - Got to go with # 6 & 11. the best little boys ever!!!January 4, 2010 - 3:04 am

Jim - I've got to go with #2. What a handsome kid! He could do professional work.January 4, 2010 - 3:06 am

Wendy Anderson - My vote is for #2, I love the beautiful colors, such an adorable picture! (#9 is fantastic also!)January 4, 2010 - 3:06 am

Ann Sandmann - Anyone who is named Preston gets my vote!January 4, 2010 - 3:33 am

Candy - I vote for #19January 4, 2010 - 4:11 am

Janine - #2January 4, 2010 - 4:17 am

Marie Reinhart - Oh how beautiful they all are but #9 is captivating!January 4, 2010 - 4:36 am

Laura Bauer - I vote for number 18!January 4, 2010 - 4:54 am

Diana Mattoni - #9!!!January 4, 2010 - 4:58 am

Sandra Chronis - #6 Awesome picture!!!January 4, 2010 - 6:18 am

Sara Klocinski - Number 9 is one of the most amazing photographs I have ever seen! Breathtaking!!!January 4, 2010 - 11:52 am

ashley - #9 because she's beautiful and so is the lighting!January 4, 2010 - 2:33 pm

Wendy - I love #19 it's a beautiful, well framed picture!January 4, 2010 - 2:38 pm

Eva - #6-too cute!January 4, 2010 - 2:42 pm

Nicole - absolutely #6!!!January 4, 2010 - 2:43 pm

Lesley - #19. Great family!January 4, 2010 - 3:19 pm

Jason Rahe - #19 - Great Photo!January 4, 2010 - 3:21 pm

Jenny Rahe - #19 Fall Family. Wonderful and eye-catching use of color! Along with adorable subjects, of course!January 4, 2010 - 3:36 pm

Ann - #19January 4, 2010 - 3:36 pm

Ryan - #6 is the best!January 4, 2010 - 3:42 pm

Brooke Ostrander - I vote for #2 He is just so cute!---Thank youJanuary 4, 2010 - 4:11 pm

Joni - #6 is my favorite!January 4, 2010 - 4:22 pm

Emily - #5January 4, 2010 - 4:33 pm

Maria - Of Course #9. She has the prettiest eyes :) And can't believe you got her to sit still to take that! Beautiful Pictures.January 4, 2010 - 5:22 pm

Jennifer - I'd like to vote for the cutie in #6!January 4, 2010 - 5:23 pm

Julie Wainscott - I vote for #9, too cute and so precious!January 4, 2010 - 5:38 pm

Stephanie - #9 is gorgeous! The title for this photo says it all... too beautiful to put into words :)January 4, 2010 - 6:00 pm

Melissa - #9 because she is adorable!January 4, 2010 - 6:05 pm

Sara - #9 perfect :)January 4, 2010 - 6:05 pm

Michael - #9 the most beautiful baby girl in the worldJanuary 4, 2010 - 6:07 pm

Katie DeLong - #9 too cuteJanuary 4, 2010 - 6:07 pm

Katie - #9January 4, 2010 - 6:07 pm

Aimee - #9!!!!!January 4, 2010 - 6:17 pm

Jen - # 9! So adorable!!!January 4, 2010 - 6:19 pm

Laura - #3 is so beautiful!!!January 4, 2010 - 6:25 pm

Kathy - #9January 4, 2010 - 6:25 pm

Kathleen - #9 What a cutie!January 4, 2010 - 6:27 pm

Misty - #9 - He face is absolutely gorgeous and the lighting is perfect!January 4, 2010 - 6:29 pm

Michelle - I vote for #9January 4, 2010 - 6:58 pm

Julie Wagoner - Number 3...but so many of them are just breathtaking. Can't wait to see what's in store for you in 2010!January 4, 2010 - 7:29 pm

Kelly - You are a great photographer! I love the way you use the light in your photos. #9 is my favorite...very precious!!January 4, 2010 - 7:43 pm

Donna M - # 9....exquisite!January 4, 2010 - 7:46 pm

Kristal - I love, love, LOVE #3 but my heart belongs to #18 ;-) Great work Tara!January 4, 2010 - 8:51 pm

Selma Garcia - I'm voting for #2 - afterall, Matthew is on his way to my sister's house, his Grandma!! Beautiful pic!January 4, 2010 - 9:00 pm

Stephanie - I say number 9... just a beautiful photo and look at those amazing eyesJanuary 4, 2010 - 9:05 pm

Bree Reinhart - # 9 Lena. Love it!January 4, 2010 - 9:24 pm

Laura - **Number nine is divine! You are right..the lighting and the child are gorgeous! I love that pic!January 4, 2010 - 9:28 pm

Jen - Definatley #9....she's beautiful!!January 4, 2010 - 10:53 pm

Mike - Lena #9 the most beautiful baby girl :)January 4, 2010 - 11:19 pm

Lacey - #9, precious!! Very beautiful photos. You're very talented =]January 4, 2010 - 11:43 pm

Susan - #9 is my choice, what a cutie!January 4, 2010 - 11:57 pm

V Sampsel - We vote for #19 great piture!January 5, 2010 - 12:01 am

Richard Kramer - #18 for sure.. January 5, 2010 - 1:07 am

Beth Bazzoli - #9 for sure! Lena is my precious niece. Her eyes are really that amazing in real life!January 5, 2010 - 1:09 am

Katelyn - #9, but it was hard. They are all so great!January 5, 2010 - 1:13 am

Amber - # 19 please :-)January 5, 2010 - 1:23 am

Jenny Pinardo - #9. The lighting and that face are amazing!January 5, 2010 - 1:55 am

Michelle - So hard to choose, but I have to go with #2.January 5, 2010 - 1:56 am

Rick - Lena Lou we love you! #9 Rocks!January 5, 2010 - 1:56 am

Tyler - Definitely #2January 5, 2010 - 2:11 am

Michelle - So hard to choose, but I have to go with #2January 5, 2010 - 2:24 am

Kassi Matlack - #9 Lena all the way! She's so gorgeous! Good luck lena babe!January 5, 2010 - 3:35 am

Laura Brett - Tara - They are all just so stunning. If I have to chose then hands down #3 all day! :)January 5, 2010 - 4:34 am

rachael - #7 fo sho!January 5, 2010 - 5:47 am

Fabiana - #12 - because it is gorgeous and because my girly girl is a freshman at college and I miss her terribly. How I wish that I had something like this of her when she was this age. Stunning images!!!!January 5, 2010 - 7:10 am

Cookie Cherry - 19 - The Family is God's gift to everyone...January 5, 2010 - 12:23 pm

Michelle - #6 is the cutest!January 5, 2010 - 12:29 pm

Molly Burdette - All of the pictures are absolutely gorgeous, but my vote is for #9!January 5, 2010 - 12:41 pm

Brenda Swartz - # 9 has it allJanuary 5, 2010 - 1:54 pm

Susan Puffer - Lovely pictures! I vote for # 19January 5, 2010 - 2:14 pm

Kristy S. - #9!January 5, 2010 - 2:28 pm

Courtney - #19: Fall Family: I love this picture!January 5, 2010 - 2:34 pm

Gina - OMG...Love #2January 5, 2010 - 2:50 pm

Rachel - Just love #2 looks like he belongs on a magazineJanuary 5, 2010 - 2:56 pm

Carly - I vote for #19, just love this family picture with all of the great colors! I mean, of course, I vote for ALL of them, because Tara your work is amazing!!January 5, 2010 - 2:57 pm

catherine - Love #9! Amazing pic! Beautiful girl!January 5, 2010 - 3:03 pm

Jason J - #2January 5, 2010 - 3:03 pm

Nicole - All of your work is amazing, but I have to go with #2January 5, 2010 - 3:08 pm

Jayce V. - #9!!!January 5, 2010 - 3:27 pm

Brock - #9!January 5, 2010 - 3:29 pm

julia - number 9! shes so cuteeeJanuary 5, 2010 - 3:30 pm

Zack - number 9(: !January 5, 2010 - 3:31 pm

erica louise (: - picture number nineee , is absolutely gorgeous she is very very prettyy (: it was a hard choice but number nine is my favorite . she is so cutee (: !January 5, 2010 - 3:33 pm

Daniel - number 9 is the best out of them all!!January 5, 2010 - 3:34 pm

Nathan - i love number 9 its a amazing pictureJanuary 5, 2010 - 3:41 pm

Monica Gibson - "9 BEAUTIFUL!!!!!January 5, 2010 - 3:42 pm

collen - # 9 soooo pretty love itJanuary 5, 2010 - 3:49 pm

Madeline - #9 is the most beautiful picture for sureJanuary 5, 2010 - 3:50 pm

Matty - # 9 is the best!January 5, 2010 - 3:51 pm

Grace - # 9 precious!January 5, 2010 - 3:54 pm

Bella - #9January 5, 2010 - 3:56 pm

megan - #9January 5, 2010 - 3:56 pm

Schaffer - #9January 5, 2010 - 3:57 pm

wipfli - #9 is the best for sureJanuary 5, 2010 - 3:58 pm

petas - # 9 is the best pic by far!!!!!!!January 5, 2010 - 4:00 pm

Zoe Berkovic - You are so talented and this was a HARD pick. 3 is my favorite though!! I loved that image for a long time!January 5, 2010 - 4:27 pm

colleen - I have to say #9 shes so beautiful, I look at picture and the lighting has formed giving her the appearance of having angel wings and then of course heaven is in her eyes! Great shot.January 5, 2010 - 4:29 pm

Haley W - #19 please! :)January 5, 2010 - 4:41 pm

Lauri VanWormer - Vote #9January 5, 2010 - 4:45 pm

Michelle - #2 Going To Grandma's He is so cute in this picture. :))January 5, 2010 - 4:49 pm

Jan - Vote for #9January 5, 2010 - 4:49 pm

Emily - Vote #9January 5, 2010 - 4:51 pm

Sandi - Please vote for #9January 5, 2010 - 4:55 pm

Michelle - #2 definatly "Going to Grandma's" what a great picture.January 5, 2010 - 4:56 pm

Jeff - #9 FORE SURE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!January 5, 2010 - 5:01 pm

Tonya :) - #9 shes sooo cuteeJanuary 5, 2010 - 5:05 pm

Courtney - #9 this pic if the best pic by so far!!!January 5, 2010 - 5:09 pm

Emily - Very Cute #9! :)January 5, 2010 - 5:18 pm

Maria - Gorgeous #9!January 5, 2010 - 5:29 pm

Austin - 9January 5, 2010 - 5:29 pm

Jordon - Definitely #9January 5, 2010 - 5:30 pm

scott - #1January 5, 2010 - 5:31 pm

nathan vidra - i pick 9 because i like itJanuary 5, 2010 - 5:39 pm

Sean Harger - Number 9 is the greatest picture EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!January 5, 2010 - 5:41 pm

Sean Harger - Number 9 is the greatest picture everJanuary 5, 2010 - 5:43 pm

David Henninger - #9 is a sweet picture. It's awesomeJanuary 5, 2010 - 5:46 pm

Joshua - 9January 5, 2010 - 5:47 pm

Cody - Number 9 is by far the best picture on this website!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!January 5, 2010 - 5:51 pm

Danny - #9 is awesome. You have to be completely crazy not to reralize the greatness of #9. This picture is the greatness thing i have ever seen. You should pu this in a magazine. Please, this picture should win, it is tremendous. OMG MY BFF JILL, this picture is amazing. You have to be crazy not to realize this pictures greatness. IT IS AMAZING. I love it, it is so cool.January 5, 2010 - 5:54 pm

karianna - #9 is the BEST picture by far !!!!! :DJanuary 5, 2010 - 5:56 pm

nicole - #9 is just soo adorable (: simply cuteeeJanuary 5, 2010 - 5:57 pm

amy - #9 is by far the best.January 5, 2010 - 5:58 pm

marty - for sure #9 my friend!January 5, 2010 - 5:59 pm

Miranda - I thought that #9 the little girl was cute and i it was a good picture and i hope she wins.January 5, 2010 - 6:21 pm

ariana - i think that #9 is amazing . i love the picture of her, her eyes are amazing and i think she looks very beautiful.January 5, 2010 - 6:25 pm

Tommie - i think that number 9 is the bestJanuary 5, 2010 - 6:28 pm

Tyler - #9 scores a 10 out of 10 for me:)January 5, 2010 - 6:47 pm

Logan - I would have to say that I like number nineJanuary 5, 2010 - 6:49 pm

Kristy - My vote is for #2, Going to Grandma's....all of your pics are beautiful though!January 5, 2010 - 7:13 pm

carylon - I would like to vote for #19. The girls are adorable and the colors are so vibrant and beautifully done!January 5, 2010 - 7:20 pm

jennyb - Going to Grandma's for sure!January 5, 2010 - 7:30 pm

Amanda - #9January 5, 2010 - 7:33 pm

l.hollander - vote for #18January 5, 2010 - 7:39 pm

Maxwell Filby - #9 is hands down the best picture on here. They should use that picture for the inserts on picture frames its so amazing! #9 wins! great work!January 5, 2010 - 8:03 pm

Lauren - #9 is an absolute delightful photograph! What a beautiful little girl!January 5, 2010 - 8:41 pm

Stefano - #9January 5, 2010 - 8:56 pm

Erin Lynch-Holahan - #2 Going to Grandma's. You're a wonderful photographer.January 5, 2010 - 9:06 pm

Allison - 9 she is just to beautiful and specialJanuary 5, 2010 - 9:24 pm

beulah phillips - No. 19January 5, 2010 - 9:29 pm

Julie Camper - I vote for #9...gorgeous!January 5, 2010 - 9:30 pm

Chase - Great photos, number 9 gets my voteJanuary 5, 2010 - 10:05 pm

Katie - Number 15 is cute but I really love number 9January 5, 2010 - 10:07 pm

Olivia - Number nine because she is my cute cousin!January 5, 2010 - 10:09 pm

Sunshine Ferrero - #2, this one is the best!!!! So cute.January 5, 2010 - 10:18 pm

Tony - #9! What a cute girl!!!January 5, 2010 - 11:01 pm

Kelly - I LOVE #9!!! I hope she wins!!January 5, 2010 - 11:03 pm

Brian - #9 has the eyes of an angel!January 5, 2010 - 11:14 pm

Angie Green - #2! (Going to Grandma's) He is so cute and I love the fall setting. All your pictures are priceless!January 5, 2010 - 11:26 pm

Christiane - I would like to vote for #2 Going to Grandma's.January 6, 2010 - 12:16 am

Germaine - I love them all, but my vote is number 2. Beautiful work!!!!January 6, 2010 - 12:17 am

mo - #9 is a great shot catching the beauty of the young girl!January 6, 2010 - 12:29 am

laura bell - we love #2..what a precious little boy...January 6, 2010 - 12:44 am

Kim - I love #9. #9 gets my vote!January 6, 2010 - 12:46 am

Melissa Dean - #2...what a cutie pie!January 6, 2010 - 12:58 am

Sadie - I can't stop thinking about how beautiful picture #9 is! That has to be the most beautiful baby I've ever seen :) #9 has to win it is by the best picture out of them all.....January 6, 2010 - 1:00 am

Marion Durham - I really like #9---please cast my vote!--Thank you, MarionJanuary 6, 2010 - 1:04 am

CHRISTINA VAN SKYOCK - MY VOTE IS 9 SHE IS BEUTIFUL........ AND THE PICTURE IS WONDERFUL THE LIGHTING AND THE HAIR!January 6, 2010 - 1:29 am

Terry Jiannuzzi - #9 - The eye's have it!January 6, 2010 - 1:56 am

Melissa Bauer - Voting for #2January 6, 2010 - 4:10 am

Mike - #9 - those eyes are haunting!January 6, 2010 - 7:51 am

jerri wheeler - 9 is a great pic!January 6, 2010 - 8:02 am

Ann - #19 pleaseJanuary 6, 2010 - 12:23 pm

Laura - I like the family in 19January 6, 2010 - 12:24 pm

Jeff - number 19 pleaseJanuary 6, 2010 - 12:25 pm

Laura - 19 is perfectJanuary 6, 2010 - 2:19 pm

Andrea Cushman - Love baby lashes 18January 6, 2010 - 2:32 pm

Lynae Looney - Love #9 what a BEAUTY!!!!January 6, 2010 - 3:18 pm

Shelley - #9 Beautiful!!~!January 6, 2010 - 3:32 pm

Annie - Beautiful pics! #9 is my fav!January 6, 2010 - 4:24 pm

Sue - #19 is the best picture!January 6, 2010 - 4:34 pm

Marissa - #9!! She is sooo adorable!January 6, 2010 - 5:10 pm

Lindsay - #9 for sure! Beautiful pic!January 6, 2010 - 5:20 pm

Mary - they are all beautiful but I vote for #19January 6, 2010 - 5:22 pm

ann avila - #2 going to grandma'sJanuary 6, 2010 - 5:33 pm

Natalie - Vote #9- just a breath-taking picture. Love it!!!!January 6, 2010 - 5:39 pm

Mary - #2 is the best!!January 6, 2010 - 5:41 pm

Mary - #2 is beautifulJanuary 6, 2010 - 5:42 pm

Alex - #9, but they are all beautifulJanuary 6, 2010 - 5:43 pm

Alex - I think #2 going to grandmas is adorable. too cute.January 6, 2010 - 5:51 pm

Joni - Love #2! Seriously.January 6, 2010 - 5:52 pm

Mike - I really like #2. Yeah, that one is the best.January 6, 2010 - 5:53 pm

Mark - I think #2 looks the best out of them all. They are all great but #2 takes the cake.January 6, 2010 - 5:53 pm

Jennifer Wright - #2:Going to Grandma's...definately a winner...adorableJanuary 6, 2010 - 5:54 pm

Michele - I like #2 but they're all adorable.January 6, 2010 - 5:55 pm

Tony - #2 all the way. :)January 6, 2010 - 5:56 pm

Nikki - Number 9! Beautiful little girl and amazing picture!!!January 6, 2010 - 5:57 pm

Ashlie Prior - Number 2! So cute!January 6, 2010 - 5:59 pm

Liz - #2...nobody wears a hat better!January 6, 2010 - 6:03 pm

Kelly Mendoza - Wow, that was hard! I vote for #3!January 6, 2010 - 6:04 pm

Todd Du Bois - I cast my vote for #2 Going to Grandma'sJanuary 6, 2010 - 6:06 pm

Darci - Number 2!!! Adorable!January 6, 2010 - 6:07 pm

sarah b - #2. He is soooo cute. I love the colors too.January 6, 2010 - 6:11 pm

Theresa - #2 love the colors and the little guy is just tooo cute! All are breath taking though!January 6, 2010 - 6:17 pm

Ginny Stout - Voting for #19! What awesome colors! All of your work is great!January 6, 2010 - 6:18 pm

Kelli - # 19 You do amazing work, I love them all.January 6, 2010 - 6:41 pm

Tera S. - I love #12January 6, 2010 - 6:43 pm

Wendi Romer - #9 is the definately my choice. Just want to squeeze that beautiful baby.January 6, 2010 - 6:46 pm

Katie - Number 19- what a cute little family!January 6, 2010 - 6:51 pm

Dustin Harder - #2. This kid and this picture just have it! They all look great though! But #2 get's my vote!!January 6, 2010 - 7:32 pm

Julie Vezina - #2 - Going to Grandma's is adorableJanuary 6, 2010 - 7:33 pm

Alyson - #2 what a cutie!!January 6, 2010 - 8:15 pm

Tarah Hardinggeous - My choice is definitely 9! She is just absolutely gorgeous! (:January 6, 2010 - 8:32 pm

Nicole - #9 #9 #9 For sure this one.....AWESOME!January 6, 2010 - 8:44 pm

Erin Appelbaum - #9 is my best friends neice and she is the most gorgeous little girl! Love your photos!!January 6, 2010 - 8:51 pm

kristy - I would like to vote for #9 this is also another favoriteJanuary 6, 2010 - 8:59 pm

Jeff Appelbaum - #9 Great photo, I love her beautiful eyes.January 6, 2010 - 9:02 pm

Sean Appelbaum - #9 Great shot!January 6, 2010 - 9:03 pm

Danica - #2 - going to Grandma's house!!!! SO adorable!January 6, 2010 - 9:24 pm

Shine - #9January 6, 2010 - 9:47 pm

Elizabeth Appelbaum - #9January 6, 2010 - 9:51 pm

andrea sanchez - #9....Sooooooo beautiful!January 6, 2010 - 9:52 pm

Julie - #2 is adorable!January 6, 2010 - 10:42 pm

Angie Rolli - #2January 6, 2010 - 11:14 pm

Abby - #9January 7, 2010 - 12:01 am

Sean - # 9 Lena! Lena!January 7, 2010 - 12:03 am

Adam - # 9 is my favoriteJanuary 7, 2010 - 12:03 am

leslie larsen - My vote is for #15 ofcourse. Lol followed by #9January 7, 2010 - 12:03 am

Alishia - My vote is for # 9, BeAuTiFuL!January 7, 2010 - 12:05 am

Diann Sumerix - I choose # 2...It just catches my eye...the baby looks like a little doll...his skin color...amazing !!!!January 7, 2010 - 12:09 am

Judy - #19 pleaseJanuary 7, 2010 - 12:53 am

Kristina Conrad - Im voting for #9!!!! Lena is sooo gorgeous!!!!!!!!!January 7, 2010 - 1:39 am

Nancy J - #9January 7, 2010 - 1:39 am

Sue - Lena Lou! #9January 7, 2010 - 2:28 am

Mindy - Of course I would vote for my own little ones, but since the contest is so close between #2 and # 9 I wanted to give my vote to #9. Every photo is awesome!January 7, 2010 - 2:36 am

Papa Mike - # 9 The LeansterJanuary 7, 2010 - 2:38 am

Mike Nowa - #9January 7, 2010 - 2:46 am

Mr M - #9January 7, 2010 - 2:47 am

Andy Farren - Cool contest, great pics! Go #9January 7, 2010 - 2:48 am

Jared - Love it.........#9January 7, 2010 - 2:50 am

Nancy - Go Lena! #9 PleaseJanuary 7, 2010 - 2:51 am

Raquel - #9January 7, 2010 - 2:52 am

Jordy - # 9 Beautiful picture!January 7, 2010 - 2:55 am

Karla - #9January 7, 2010 - 2:56 am

Judy - #2 Looks like an angel to me. Definitely my pick!January 7, 2010 - 2:58 am

Jim - #2 Could travel to papa's anytime! He's got my vote!January 7, 2010 - 2:59 am

Missy - Win or lose it was nice to have been chosen as one of your favorites from 2009. Thanks Tara!January 7, 2010 - 3:43 am

Michelle - #19 So cute!January 7, 2010 - 3:54 am

Tarah - #9, lena is just so beautiful!January 7, 2010 - 4:00 am

joshua b - #9January 7, 2010 - 4:59 am

{ Merry Christmas } | Toledo Photographer

December 26, 2009

Merry Christmas to all of my fabulous blog readers!  Thank you to you and to all of my clients for making 2009 such an AWESOME year!  Seriously, I have the BEST  clients in the whole, wide world…and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.  I truly adore what I do, and feel so honored to be invited into your lives to capture a piece of it.  <3 <3

I hope your Christmas was very Merry. :)   We have had a very special Christmas…no particular reason, it was just spent with family and the people we love.  I get to see one of my besties Lori and baby Avery today (I cannot WAIT to get my hands on that baby!!!) and then tonight we’re off to see my favorite cousins!  Life is so sweet.

I have not had internet access up here in the boonies :) until today so now I FINALLY get to announce the winner of my recent “Giving is Awesome!” giveaway.  I had a few nominations, and they truly ALL pulled at my heartstrings.  It was a tough decision, but I have made it, and hope that my gift can help to brighten this family’s day a little.

I had two different people nominate this family….

Here is what Inga wrote:

Tara,
I saw the post on your site about your contest, and I think this is a wonderful idea!  I would like to nominate Cindy, Scott, and Sasha Franklin.  This year has been very challenging for Cindy and Scott.  Cindy has always been one of the first people to volunteer to help others in need.  When friends have babies or experience a hardship, she immediately offers food, babysitting services, and anything else she can think of to offer.
 
Cindy and Scott have had a trying year.  They experienced some personal battles which was very difficult and devastating to them. (*edited to protect privacy*) As if that wasn’t hard enough, Scott went to a specialist to have a lump in his throat checked.  After more testing, it was confirmed that the lump was cancerous. 

 
Cindy went into overdrive contacting treatment centers, setting up appointments to meet oncologists with the expertise to treat Scott’s cancer.  She spent hours researching and driving him to tests and consultations.   They relocated to Cleveland for 2 months of intense chemotherapy and radiation. 
 
Cindy was amazing the way she cared for Scott.  When things were really bad, she agree to send Sasha to family.  Anyone who knows Cindy, knows that her dauhter is her light and joy!  There were days when spending an hour alone with Sasha is what refueled Cindy’s soul so she could care for Scott.
 
They are all home now, but Scott is still recovering.  I think the Franklin family would be deserving of this because they are surviving what could break a lot of families.  More than that, they are stronger as a family for what they have had to go through this year!  I think it would be wonderful for them to have some of your beautiful photos to document that they are surviving and stronger together!
Merry Christmas Cindy, Scott and Sasha…love to you guys.  Please contact me soon so we can discuss your giveaway.
Thank you to Inga and Jen for writing in!
*May your Days be Merry and Bright…*

 

Posted in Giving is Awesome | Tags: , , , , , ,

by Chixie

3 comments

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Brad - Merry Christmas, Tara, to you and your family!!! Thanks for all the great posts this year and for inspiring all of us with your beautiful images, too!December 28, 2009 - 2:12 am

Cindy - Tara, I never knew about this contest. I have admired your work at different friends' houses and I am just blown away that we have been given such an amazing gift. I am humbled that friends would think of us and write such beautiful things. I don't even know what to say.. thank you just doesn't seem like enough. I cannot wait for Scott to get healthy enough to be able to get a portrait. We have never had a professional family portrait done. Thank you again for offering your artwork.December 28, 2009 - 6:16 am

Mynde - I would have to go with #9. She is so adorable.January 5, 2010 - 4:39 pm

{ Family of 4 } | Michigan Family Photographer

December 22, 2009

These are some of my favorite people in the world.  Derrick is my cousin and is 2 years older than me.  We were pretty inseparable while growing up and we are still pretty close.  Our families of 4 spend a LOT of time together when we are back “home”.  He and his wife Cari are some of our very closest friends and I love them. <3 <3

Here is their gorgeous family:

 

 

Ava and Britton just adore these boys……and I’m pretty sure the feeling is mutual

One of my fav’s….they are so good together

This is Chase…him and his mom are just alike :D and he is way too smart for his own good, LOL!

This is Tyler…he is very sweet and I swear has almost no teeth left in his head right now, I am truly amazed at how he even eats, LOL!  The tooth fairy has been super busy lately, LOL!

Cari is so beautiful <3 <3  (and Derrick isn’t too bad either but that’s weird since he’s my cousin) ;)

The boys were some of my easiest subjects, they did whatever I asked and even posed themselves at times.

We don’t see them nearly enough but I’m very excited because we’re headed north in two more days, and I’m hoping we can make time to spend with them!!!  Love you guys so much!

Posted in Kids, family | Tags: , , ,

by Chixie

13 comments

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Lori - These are beautiful photos of a beautiful family =)December 22, 2009 - 2:31 pm

Krystle - Aww these are great! Great location too!December 22, 2009 - 3:31 pm

Cari - Love them!!!!!! Thank you so much!!!!!!!!December 22, 2009 - 6:32 pm

Brad - Great photos! It's fun to shoot family, especially when you know they will love images like these.December 24, 2009 - 1:44 am

Cathy - #10January 2, 2010 - 7:30 pm

Sanya - #9January 4, 2010 - 3:22 am

joann - number 9January 4, 2010 - 7:34 pm

chelsey - # 9January 4, 2010 - 7:35 pm

c - number 9!!!January 4, 2010 - 7:36 pm

chris - number 9January 4, 2010 - 7:36 pm

tom - #9January 4, 2010 - 7:37 pm

t - number 9January 4, 2010 - 7:37 pm

Dawn - Great feeling captured in these pics, Tara! Love them!January 5, 2010 - 4:31 pm

Christmas Quads! | Toledo Children’s Photographer

December 14, 2009

WOW!  I am severely behind on my blogging, aren’t I?  I am so sorry, I am going to attempt to getting caught up on posting pictures.  I have been so busy that I wanted to make sure my clients needs were taken care of promptly and get those galleries up as soon as I could.  So now I am going to post those galleries.  :)  

 

This mini session was the SWEETEST set of  quadruplets I have ever met.  Okay so I have never met quads before but I can bet they are really the sweetest.  ;)  Such nice and polite kids and mom is a saint. I met them through another client-turned-friend….Sara, thank you!  I’m gong to keep each post short on words so that I can get to posting the important stuff. ;)  Enjoy!

Posted in Kids | Tags: , , , , , ,

by Chixie

3 comments

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Cari - Great pictures Tara!!! I love how they all look so much a like, yet each has their own unique look to them... Does that make sense... But Beautiful as always!December 14, 2009 - 12:28 am

Brad Jolly - These are so good! I especially like the last photo with the kids holding hands...that is really great!December 15, 2009 - 3:58 am

Sarah T. - Great pictures Tara!December 18, 2009 - 11:31 pm

{ Giving is AWESOME! }

December 6, 2009

 

You know someone. You know someone who’s experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is raising kids while holding down more than one job, or is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances. You know someone who can’t afford custom photography, but who would cherish it this holiday season. You know someone who deserves a year-round reminder of their family’s spirit, love, and beauty.

You know someone. I guarantee it.

I want to know who they are, and I want to give them the chance to experience complimentary custom photography — Over $700 worth, to be exact. A ton of prints for them and to share and a gorgeous heirloom canvas gallery wrap, for them to cherish forever.

Oh, and the best part? The person who nominates the winner receives a $200 print credit. What better reason to show some love could there possibly be, people?

The rules:

* You cannot nominate yourself, and the person nominated must sincerely be incapable of purchasing my services. (Being unable to make mortgage payments for a two-million-dollar-vacation-home in Paris does not qualify as sincere financial need.)

* The nominee must reside in [MICHIGAN or OHIO]. Tell me who you know, what they’re experiencing, and why they deserve my artwork. Please include a way to contact both your nominee and yourself as well.

* You must e-mail me the full story : chixieandhoney@hotmail.com

 Deadline for nominations is December 20, 2009

The winner will be announced on Christmas Eve — get nominating! I can’t wait to read all of your entries!

Open your heart to someone this holiday season — and thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.

With love,

Tara

 

 

Posted in charity | Tags: , , , , , , ,

by Chixie

7 comments

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Danielle - Love these Tara...they are beautiful!December 6, 2009 - 9:27 pm

Melanie - LOVE the Christmas photos!!December 6, 2009 - 11:40 pm

Alicia - This a beautiful idea. I love it.December 6, 2009 - 11:42 pm

Brad Jolly - These are great Christmas images. I really like the compositions!December 7, 2009 - 5:33 am

Trudie - Awesome as always. I love that you have such different adn original ideas.December 7, 2009 - 10:52 pm

Melissa - Tara, these are beautiful! I love the colorDecember 9, 2009 - 1:40 am

Jenilee - This is such an amazing thing you are doing. I did something similar a few months ago and the stories sent in were so touching that it made it VERY difficult to decide on who to chose. I can't wait to see the pictures from this session! This is going to be such a blessing to the people who receive it! Oh and I love the pictures you've chosen SOOOO cute!December 9, 2009 - 7:52 am

{ I need YOUR help } Toledo Children’s Photographer

December 2, 2009

Hello to all my awesome readers!  Today is a good day. :)  Today is my birthday, and normally (well, since having children at least) it feels like “just another day”.  Today has not been, “just another day”.  

I have so much to be thankful for….beautiful children who insist on coming into our bed in the middle of the night, kicking me in the face, pushing me out of bed, and then insisting on getting up at the crack of dawn, wanting to watch Elmo. :)  

A handsome and generous husband who wrote “Happy 31st Birthday” on a stack of paperplates, along with some pretty darn good illustrations of presents and balloons. (By the way, seeing that 31 actually written down made me feel a little old).  

One of my best friends coming over at 9:00 this morning with Starbucks and Tim Hortons donuts….and a pretty bracelet letting me know how important our friendship is to her.  Having a chat on the couch while the kids screamed and played was also priceless.

My other best friend’s husband, who drove in (I had no idea who he was when he drove in), knocked on my door, came in and handed me a dozen pink roses.  You couldn’t wipe the smile off my face, it was such an awesome and welcome surprise.  Even when he said “They’re kinda dead, but…hey”  He and his wife (my other best friend) live almost  2 hours away but he “was in the area” and thought enough of me to do that for me.  

*Yes I had to call my husband and let him know that my boyfriend delivered me flowers….and I loved to hear the shock in the silence, trying to figure out if *he* was the one that the flowers were supposed to be from…ha!* :)  He informed me that Chad is now making him look bad, hehehehe*

The TONS of Facebook “Happy Birthday’s”, and the phone calls from loved ones….it’s all so awesome and makes me feel so special.  Yes, I really do have a lot to be thankful for.  

I’m also thankful for the opportunity I recently had with the clothing company “Matilda Jane”.  A select group of photographers were chosen to photograph an unreleased little girls’ dress and then a contest would ensue.  

I need YOUR help by voting for me!

Please go to My Entry and simply click “add to bag”  It will then take through a voting process.  You can vote as many times as you’d like..but it must be from different computers (IP addresses)  So help a birthday girl out, will ya? :)  Get your mom, your sister, your grandma, your dog, your dog’s grandma :D  hehehe to vote for me.  I would SO appreciate it!

Please leave me a comment and let me know if you voted, I’d love to hear from you!!!

 

The photo entry of my beautiful, precious girl….


Posted in Personal | Tags: , , , , , , ,

by Chixie

7 comments

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Lori - I voted and will have Chad vote too. =)December 3, 2009 - 2:11 pm

Mindy - Beautiful photo Tara! I voted...Good Luck!December 3, 2009 - 2:49 pm

Christine Farka - I voted for you! I love your work!December 3, 2009 - 3:17 pm

Sanya - Great photo! I voted for you. :) Good luck.December 4, 2009 - 2:53 am

Brad Jolly - Happy B'day to you ( a day late, I guess). I went out and voted for you, too. The picture is really great, too! I hope you win!December 4, 2009 - 5:07 am

Megan - First let me say, Happy Birthday! :-) I truely hope that it is a very special one! Also, I wanted to let you know that I just voted for your fabulous photo at MJ. I actually found the contest link on the site of another photographers blog that I follow. However, when I got to the site I saw your photo and immediately knew that I had to vote for it too! I love the soft feel of the image, the gorgeous colors, and of course your lovely little one. Great job Tara...and best of luck! :-)December 4, 2009 - 4:45 pm

tina - I am so glad you had such a nice birthday Tara! You certainly deserve it!!!December 8, 2009 - 2:43 am

{Orchard Girls} | Toledo Children’s Photographer

November 6, 2009

I recently had the absolutely awesome PLEASURE of meeting up with Nikki and her two girly girls.  She had them dressed so stinkin cute, and we ran around the orchard stomping on rotten apples, slipping and sliding, and taking a moment or two here or there to snap a photo. :)  By the time we were done, those girls smelled very strongly of fermented apples, LOL!  I think they had a lot of fun though. :D  Not sure if Mom was worried that we got any good ones…but I think we got our share ;)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nikki, thank you SO much for bringing your incredibly sweet and beautiful girls to me.  I seriously had SUCH a hard time narrowing them all down…I hope you love them as much as I do.  <3

Posted in Kids | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

by Chixie

18 comments

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dani - oh these are just fabulous!November 6, 2009 - 2:41 am

Missy Hayes - Beautiful little ladies + your talent = awesome pics, as usual! I just love these...I don't envy mom for having to pick which ones she likes best! :)November 6, 2009 - 3:44 am

Julie Provost - Beautiful!!! Love the ones with the apples especially :)November 6, 2009 - 7:58 am

vic - These are beautiful!!November 6, 2009 - 12:00 pm

Tara Matthysse - Oh my goodness - these girls are SO cute! And, Tara again, your pictures are SO amazing. Great job!!!November 6, 2009 - 1:32 pm

Cari - Seriously cute!!! Both girls are absolute dolls. But that little one!! She has the best chocolate brown eyes!!!November 6, 2009 - 2:03 pm

Alicia - As always....gorgeous. Love the close-ups.November 6, 2009 - 2:26 pm

Lori - These are great!November 6, 2009 - 2:56 pm

Susan - Those darling little girls are my grandbabies. The pics you took of them are just adorable. You are an amazing photographer and of course the subjects were marvelous!November 6, 2009 - 9:35 pm

Jennifer O. - I LOVE these! So beautiful!November 7, 2009 - 3:38 pm

Shelby - These are simply gorgeous.November 8, 2009 - 5:27 am

Christy - Wow, wow, WOW! These are awesome!!!November 13, 2009 - 12:50 pm

Michele Ingels - Tara these are stunning. I especially love the close ups. If our photos turn out even half as beautiful, I will be so pleased.November 13, 2009 - 9:52 pm

Danielle - Love these Tara...just adorable!!November 14, 2009 - 1:37 am

Brad - Absolutely fantastic photos! Thanks for sharing them! I had fun just looking at how much fin they were having. Beautiful colors!November 16, 2009 - 12:01 am

Dawn - Tara, these are absolutely beautiful captures! Love the color and interaction. Lovely!!November 20, 2009 - 3:35 pm

Becca - I absolutely love your style - your pictures are amazing!! :-)December 4, 2009 - 2:21 pm

Jamie - Absolutely amazing pictures!January 4, 2010 - 7:12 pm