We've been nominated for #1 in Detroit

VOTE FOR US!!!

Look for the pink "Insider Deal" tab to recieve

$50 off session fee

You must:

Vote for us, then post on your facebook and/or re-tweet that you voted here http://ctvr.us/footprints to get a $50 credit

Tell your friends and all your loved one's how much you love Footprints!

PORTRAIT PARTY FUNDRAISER

[Click on the image to view it larger]

As you all know I am the founder of the American Child Photographers Charity Guild. (www.acpcg.org) Our photographers are not required to do so, however, I personally supply families who qualify with not only a CD of all images, but with all their prints, etc.

I have to start some fundraisers again for the ACPCG. Donations are at an all time low and just ordered prints for three very under-privileged families who are losing and have lost their child, and the account is now near empty.

Who wants to host a portrait party?

This is the gist of it, call me if you would like more information or if you have any specific questions that I can answer.

PORTRAIT PARTY FUNDRAISER

This only happens twice a year and only when I need to raise funds for my work with these families. All of you long-time clients out there know that this kind of special doesn't come along very often, so be sure to book early before the available dates are gone

What is a Portrait Party?

A Portrait Party has a Hostess, that's you. The sessions take place at your home or at a local park (weather permitting). The Hostess invite the Guests and provide light refreshments, and schedules the Guests to arrive on a staggered schedule so no one has to wait too long.

The Hostess pays NO sitting fee AND gets 10% of the total Party sales as credit toward her own order.

The guests pay a deeply discounted sitting fee per child of only $50. Plus, all proceeds from the session go towards Erin's work with the American Child Photographers Charity Guild. Parents are complimentary and encouraged to be in some of the images.

Check out Erin’s Heart and Soul gallery on her website to truly experience the impact of your donation.

The Photographer shoots a 20 - 30 minute session per child. Within 1 week, we post the images online where Guests can view and order the images from their sessions. The prints are shipped within 1 week, and 100% of the proceeds goes directly to the ACPCG.

These sessions will not only help budget-conscious families capture gorgeous images of their children but in turn will be raising funds to supply families experiencing the loss of a child with memories showcasing the legacy of their little one.

So don't wait!!

Call or email today for more information
and to book your very own Portrait Party.

248.922.1802
http://www.footprintsphotography.com

ATTENTION : 2011 SENIORS [Michigan senior portrait artist]

[click on image to view it larger]

Tell me where you have seen this poster and you will receive not only the $50 discount on your session but 16 FREE wallets!

Class of 2011 Models Wanted

We are looking for unique high school seniors with great style. You'll get a free session, an be featured on our Facebook Page, websier, mall isplay, blog and in our advertising campaign. It's a great way to earn discounts on your senior portraits and help us showcase the latest styles and backgrounds for our studio.

You do not need to be the perfect size or look like a model to be chosen. My decision will be based on personality, activities, and your eagerness to be in the program.

Benefits for Senior Representatives include:

1. One hour session taken before March 31, 2010. 3-4 of your favorite outfits.

2. Your are required to purchase on of our senior portraits sessions at 50% off.

This session must be completed by July 15th, and your order must be placed

by September 1st, 2010.

3. You will receive peronalized gift cards displaying your images to hand out to your friends.

4. You will receive 5 free facebook images and a slideshow of your modeling session to share.

5. For every gift card redeemed from your friends, you will received $50 off your final order and your friends will receive $50 twoard their senior portrait session fee.

6. A chance to win a spot in a national model fashion show for senior portraits.

Requirements:

You must be a full time class of 2011 student.

Have your senior portraits done exclusively at Footprints photography.

Be involved in your school and community.

You will need your parents permission.

Payment for your summer senior session is required when you schedule your model session.

Call for more details: 248.922.1802

Calling all Seniors!!! Class of 2011 Senior Portraits Rep Search....

Footprints Photography ® is looking for up to 20 Class of 2011 models and reps in the following school districts... Ann Arbor, Birmingham, Brighton, Bloomfield Hills, Clarkston, Farmington, Hartland, Howell, Plymouth, Northville, and Rochester. Help spread the word that if you are tired of the same senior portrait work, Footprints has something new. If you are in a school district not listed, don't hold back, give us a call and we can set you and a couple friends up as well.

All Participants will receive an exclusive FREE Senior Portrait Session with internationally award winning photographer, Erin Drallos. Creating not only amazing portraits for you, but some unique promo shots for me. Participants will also receive gift cards, promo items with your images to hand out to friends, a facebook gallery, and the chance to earn credit towards your final print purchase. ($50 for every senior referral)

It's a sweet offer, as you can see but that's not all. You will also be registered to win $1000 print credit and a family session as well.

Call for details.... 248.922.1802

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! [ Michigan Child Photographer ]

I admit that I am the worst blogger there is. I apologize. My life is anything but simple with the girls, the horses, the business and every other thing that goes on.

This year has been a good one. Other than my poor husband falling 12 feet off a ladder while trimming trees for me. He shattered his calcaneus (heel bone) went through surgery to have 8 screws of various sizes and wire to pull in all the little pieces installed. His surgeon walked out and said to me shaking his head, "That was a bitch". He was in a wheel chair for about 3 months and is walking now months earlier than they had originally anticipated.

I have had several new clients this year whose families I fell in love with. Many clients who return every year who I already feel close to. I love watching their children and the size of their families grow. I really do feel special in my role of documenting their lives. Thank you all for allowing me this pleasure.

My charity is still going strong. This is so bitter sweet. I am very proud of what we do, however, I wish there wasn't such a need for our services. One of my favorite pics is below, this is Evan and his family. Evan passed away on November 27, 2009 at the age of 7. I felt an immediate connection with is family. I think about them daily and I am so thankful for having gotten to know them. And blessed to have met and experienced the grace of Evan. Please follow this link to view a video about the work that Evan's dad does at this address.... it is quite amazing and you be forever touched..... http://youtube.com/watch?v=gtTScLpEAfY

I still look forward to getting up every morning and taking care of the horses. I can't imagine a life without them and I never want to. Regardless of what anyone who doesn't understand these animals think, I do get back from them as much as I give. In a way I feel saved from a life of only working. They have forced me to take more time out for my kids. In turn teaching my kids responsibility and pride.

We have a new addition to our herd.... above is Princess Spumoni. You may chuckle when seeing the royal title, however, when meeting her and getting to know her personality, you realize, she really has crowned herself. Spumoni belongs to my good friends, Jill and her daughter Paige. She fits right in and is well loved by everyone in the herd. She is quite fond of all the boys, if you get my drift. She and Tinkerbell are good friends, I can tell Tink likes having another mare around.

I had a blast decorating my house this year. Finally I put up garland surrouding the wrap around porch. If I had my choice, I would have put it up surrounding the pastures as well. Red bows as well. My girls chose the picture at the top of this post for our Christmas card, I love it and it shows the joy we have every day living on this horse farm. It really is amazing. Below I will close with a few pics from our Christmas card session. The girls were having a blast. One day I have to get the older three involved. It sure would be nice to have a picture of all five on the front... hint, hint, to my 3 oldest children.

The best news of all this year is about my oldest son Jimmy, I am so proud of him. Jimmy has graduated from Michigan State University's College of Engineering with a degree in Computer Science. He did amazing in school as to be expected from such a brilliant kid. He has some big decisions to make regarding his future, due to all his successes. I can't begin to tell you the pride we feel for him. He has always been a hard worker. He doesn't take anything for granted and has always had so much gratitude. I am really proud of the man he has grown into. My big goal for the summer is to throw the most amazing graduation party for him. Celebrating Jimmy. I can't wait. Congratulations Jimmy! We love you!

I hope and pray your family is blessed abundantly in 2010, from my home to yours . . . .

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Dog portraits.... I think I am in love! [ Ann Arbor Photographer ]

Meet 11 week old Marla. Who can resist a Boston Terrier puppy? Not me! This session was so fun and inspiring to me that I think every summer I am going have a weekend devoted to my clients Dogs. Maybe some Cool Cats too.

And my absolutel favorite! How Sweet is she?

Marla's Mom and Dad were recently married and she is their only child. She came running out full of love one day while I was photographing a client near her Daddy's work. I had to offer up a session and he happily obliged. Thank you John for allowing me some fun time. I really needed it.

Have a great day!!

HOORAY FOR SUMMER!!

Wow, what a bang summer has made in my life. I got out trail riding with my friend Cris, however, I took a bit of a fall and ended up with a concussion. This isn't my first, and I can tell you it isn't fun at all. Horse show season is upon us and the girls are having a blast. We have been super busy, life hasn't stood still for a minute. I am so happy that there is about to be a lull in shows, so I can get caught up on everything else. I can't believe it is almost time for my father's big 4th of July party. That is always a blast!

If you haven't received a reply to any emails, please resend. I am, again, having email issues. I apologize to one and all for not responding quick enough.

Here are some pictures of my gorgeous grandson Emmett . . . gotta love that grin. The awesome pic at the top is my absolute favorite. You can almost hear him laugh. Does he have a great face or what?Here he is flying my airplane swing. The kids can't get enough of it.

I love this picture of John and Emmett. I love my husband so much, in the beginning, what attracted me most to him is what a wonderful father he is to Rachel and Jimmy. He is just as wonderful to our girls. It used to make me cry watching him with the girls when they were babies, now I get all weepy watching him with Emmett.

Doesn't the property look like a park? I love it here, so serene. And so perfect for a photographer. Lucky me!

Girls and their horses - Madi and Ruckus

I love photographing girls and their horses. There is something special in that bond and when it comes through in the image, it is priceless. All you horse Mom's know what I am talking about.
When a senior girl wants her pics with her horse I know it is going to be a phenomenal experience. The top one is my favorite... I love the sunkiss tone on it, however, Madi prefers black and white.
I haven't finished them all, enjoy your sneak peek.

Take care.

Kids with Special Needs

This is Sarah. I should say Delightful Sarah with the beautiful eyes and hair. I can't forget her contagious laugh and smile. And her love of ponies. Sarah could have looked at the pictures on my iPhone for hours. Scrolling through all the pictures of my ponies.

Anyone who knows me, knows my love of children with special needs. I love to be surrounded by them. Even if it is just to bask in their presence. It makes me feel special and well, I feel honored to meet these kids.

My friend Karen went with me to photograph Sarah and her family. What an amazing visit. Sarah's Mom favors black and white photography, but I had to show the color of Sarah's eyes and hair.

To all parents of children with Special needs, please give me a call. I know it isn't always easy to find a photographer who will be able to capture the true essence of your child. Special discounts apply on session fees and print prices.

Pony rides included!

The American Child Photographers Charity Guild

">

I began the ACPCG in 2004 when I realized the need for photographers to be made available to parents in need. There wasn't any other type of Charity such as this at the time.

When you need to do something that feeds your soul, come work with me. This is what matters most, Faith, life no matter how short, love and family.

Not so happy about what the program did to my images but I am sure you will get the gist of it.

Have a great week!!!

Ellie and Madeliene

I wanted to share these images. They just tug at my heart...

Ellie is a gorgeous 18.2 Strawberry Roan Clydesdale Mare. Some of you saw her when you were at my house in the spring. She is a gentle giant. I love to just lay on her and hug her and feel her sweetness.

We went out to her new farm to get a few pictures I wanted. Her mom did this for me and I am so thankful, they are images I wanted to capture from the beginning. Don't worry, Ellie is very, very careful with her feet.

Ellie loves children if you can't tell.

I thought this was funny as well. Ellie was just exhausted, modeling is not as easy as it looks!

"There is nothing better for the inside of a person, than the outside of a horse!" Roy Rogers

November in Michigan...

It has been a while since updating my blog, I have been so busy with this Christmas season, the kids, the horses and trying to get everything designed and ordered. So my apologies. Thanks for the emails.

This past week has been so beautiful here in Michigan. Although most of the leaves are down, the weather has been in the high 60s to low 70s. Just gorgeous!

I have been able to photograph clients outside, which has been really nice, the kids are loving it and so am I.

This image is from this past weekend. I just love this little girl. From the curls, to her eyes, to that adorable little smirk. She is on the move now and ready to go!

2008 HOLIDAY PORTRAITS

Holiday sessions are in full swing!

**********

Sessions must be completed by November 17
and order must be placed by November 30
in order to arrive by Christmas.

***********

Contact the studio ASAP
to schedule your session.

**********

Any clients wanting to order Christmas
cards from earlier sessions may do so but
it is preferred that you order them
sooner than later.

Bella Artistry

Bella Artistry is the brainchild of Leah Miller - a very cool client of mine and a frustrated shopper, mother of two and (at the time of creation) a professional athlete's wife.

When she found there was nothing truly SUPER FLY for kids and wives of Pro Athletes to wear in support of their fathers'/ husbands' / boyfriends' / sons'/ brothers' teams,' Leah took it upon herself to create a line of hip and un-corny clothes to wear in support of her husband and his team. She began beautifying the clothing and shoes that she and her daughter would wear to games (or anywhere else they went).

One thing led to another, and eventually, she was embellishing anything and everything she could get her hands on: clothes, jerseys, shoes, belts, furniture, cake plates, candles, mirrors, pill boxes, picture frames, scrap books, pacifiers, pacifier clips, hats, you name.

The sparkle from all that Swarovski must have spotlighted her work, because other hipster kids and fashionista moms, tired of run-of-the-mill sports apparel worm by every Tom, Dick and Mary, followed the light - and BELLA ARTISTY was born.
Every piece, whether it's your jersey, hat, jeans, shirt or shoes, is custom-made, one stone at a time. Now you'll never look like just another fan in the stands!

To view Leah's website visit
www.bellaartistry.com

CONGRATS LEAH!

LIFE.... a few things I have learned

Don't be so busy that you start to realize you have missed out on EVERYTHING!

Take time to play with your kids more. Silly play. Run around with them. They love it.

Sit and cuddle your kids as much as you can.

Make sure everyone knows how much you love them. Sometimes you never have the chance to tell them again.

Don't sweat the small stuff. Some things just don't matter. They mean something, but they really don't matter.

Hold yourself accountable.

Remember that everyone has a bad day once and a while. Just like you.

Don't get offended. Assume that whomever said it, just didn't get it out right.

Give others a break. We are all fighting our own battles.

Remember that people aren't always going to remember what you said, But they will always remember how you made them feel. Make them feel special.

There are too many people out there who need someone really bad. Be that someone.

Sometimes all someone needs is a shoulder to cry on. Give it to them and really listen.

Don't keep your distance. We are all supposed to be taking care of eachother. Life isn't about us, it's about everyone else.

Sometimes the simplest things to you, mean the world to someone else. Give it to them.

Live by example.

Have Faith.

Remember . . . Life is Good.

LOSING SCOUT

The last week and a half have been so difficult. Scout my beautiful 2 year old paint pony came down with Potomac Horse Fever. We lost him Thursday night. I can't begin to tell you how devastated we are. We sat with him for hours, traveling the hour to get to the clinic where he was on an IV to replenish fluids and plasma. Many told me that the money wasn't worth it, but I know Scout was. I know that I did everything I could, but it still is just heart breaking.

I do not know how to get over this loss, I doubt I ever will. It is different with horses, I don't know why. But it is true. You connect with them in a way you never will another animal. And sometimes other people.

Scout was a silly little boy, with a great sense of humor. He was sweet and loving and adored children. He had funny little antics and wanted to be the center of attention. But most of all, he was a Mama's boy. My sweet little boy.

The other horses are mourning the loss of Scout as well. They look for him and come up to me and nudge me trying to understand. Even little Tinkerbell was trying so hard to see into his stall, stretching up as high as she could go, looking for him. They are a close knit herd and it is so sad to see their grief.

Roy Rogers once said, "The best thing for the inside of a person is the outside of a horse". I truly believe he was right.

A Short Break in Travel Sessions...

I was talking with one of my long time clients about all my travel sessions. I thought it was going to be so glamorous. And it is, to think that so many people are willing to fly me in for family portraits. I love that part of it. However, too many trips in a row can wear on you. It is just exhausting.

I am back at home now, again, and getting ready to finish up all my gardens. It is so exciting knowing that I will have all these new areas to photograph clients in.

My front porch steps are proving to be a cool asset. I love this picture, and this kid. 3 is an amazing age. There is no other age, quite like 3.


The pond however, is my favorite. I love my pond. It is about 60 feet across and there are so many photo ops. It's awesome!

Here is one from the pond, that I really like.

I will be sharing more soon, of a few other unique opportunities this amazing piece of property is offering me. I am so blessed and so excited for this summer. I have so many ideas going through my head I am keeping a note pad handy to record them.

Have a great day and may God bless you abundantly!

The Stanley Cup

While spending time with Lord Stanley's cup I was in awe of the history. I don't know how to explain it. While going over the cup closely, inspecting and reading over the names of the victors, past and present, I was caught up in this feeling of nastalgia and pride.

I wanted to photograph the cup in all it's glory. There are a few more shots I want to get and I will in a week or so.

Congrats to the Detroit Red Wings for keeping the Cup where it belongs, here in HOCKEY TOWN.

More images to come.

God Bless!

PORTRAIT PARTIES

So what are your thoughts on Portrait Parties?

I have been getting a lot of requests to do parties where entire families or friends are all invited over. One family is the host...the host receives a complimentary session, earns a percentage of sales from the party towards their print purchase. The Host invites friends and family over (four guest family min.) at pre-appointed times. Sessions are at a discounted rate and only last about 20 minutes each. Obviously, this time limit is negotiable when dealing with children :).

I figure I can try this out. I have two booked already, but thought I would throw these dates out at you . . .

Saturdays

June 14 -

June28 -

August 9 -

August 16 -

Thursdays might work as well....

July 10 -
July 31 -

Send feed back to erin@footprintsphotography.com

A $200 deposit will still be required to hold the date.

I am thinking this will be a great fundraiser for my all my charity sessions as well. So many of these families have absolutely nothing, giving them a CD of images does nothing for someone who can't afford to have them printed. I love surprising these families with prints ready for hanging when I know they want it but can't do it themselves. This is the stuff that feeds your soul.