Krista Marie Photography

Merry Christmas

2010-12-23T01:07:00.000-08:00

Hi There!

Just a lil' Christmas cheer to pass along. Have a happy holiday from my family to yours!

Part of my Nativityset... My mother-in-law started a tradition where she gives us a new piece of a Nativity set at Christmas.

Miss Violet...a gift for my daughter's first Christmas

New house...new ways to use my old decorations....

Baby R

2010-12-15T09:05:00.000-08:00

Hi There,
It's been a while since I posted some pictures! I took these pictures a while ago (early summer) but with the move and our new baby, I didn't get them posted right away. This little one is one of the best little babies I've seen. Rarely cries, sleeps well and has very intense eyes. She's was supposed to be born around the same time as our baby, but she decided to take her time joining the world. Smart baby.

B & C Engagement

2010-07-03T00:57:00.000-07:00

Hi There!

Finally, some new photography sessions to post! I loved my craft projects, but it's nice to do some photography as well. I did this engagement session a few weeks before school got out, but with graduation and baby arriving, there was a bit of delay with getting everything touched up. There should be some more pictures coming in the future (I actually have a few session scheduled! I turned down tons of weddings this summer because I didn't know how baby was going to effect my schedule.)

Enjoy!

Meet L

2010-06-15T01:36:00.000-07:00

Hello There!

L has gotten into a better schedule and I've started to figure out this mom thing. I'm hoping to get some engagement pictures uploaded to the blog this week. We took some pictures of L when she was two weeks old (she is four weeks now!). She has gained so much weight...I can barely believe it! The supplementing really helped her get back on track. I took these pictures on a picnic table in my backyard if you can believe it! It was slightly cloudy and which is just perfect for lighting.

Enjoy our little one! I made an announcement with this first picture, so I'll post that once I get it printed and mailed off to the family.

Sticking her little tongue out...

Big Yawn!

She always has her hands on her face...this was true even in the womb! We never got a picture of her face because she was always touching her face.

Baby!

2010-06-01T01:27:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to check in. I haven't been posting because our lovely L joined us. Being a new mom is exciting, but very busy. I'm not sure the next time I'm going to be able to post something, but I'm hoping things settle down here soon!

-Krista

Snow Dogs

2010-03-25T11:16:00.000-07:00

Hello There,

Finally, a post that isn't about crafts or babies. (About dang time, right?!?) My husband took these pictures over Spring Break while we were visiting his parents. They were taken with my little point and shoot, so I'm quite impressed at how they turned out. (Not to mention the fact my husband took them)

PIN Auction Thursday

2010-02-01T15:57:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Happy Monday everyone! I wanted to let any fans who read my blog (and I
have no illusions its a large number) know that I have donated a
photography session to the Public Interest Network Silent Auction which
is Thursday, February 4th at 7:00 pm at the Eagles.

The Public Interest Network (PIN) is an organization at the law school.
The organization raises funds in order to give grants to students. These
grants allow students to take public interest internships that would
normally pay nothing. For more information or to donate visit:
http://elizabethburleson.com/PublicInterest.html

If you are the winning bidder, you can choose from the following sessions:

Smile.
This is a portrait session. Think senior pictures, maternity, head
shots, children or boudoir. Just you, me and the camera.

Promise.
This is our engagement session.

Kin.
This is the family session I offer. Two to eight family members. You can also add the dogs.

All sessions will be held outdoors unless some prior arrangement is
made. (This condition is due to the labor of hanging my backdrop. Being
6 months pregnant, I'm trying to avoid lifting the backdrop at all costs.)

All sessions include 7 picture touch-ups, 2 disks with all pictures (both raw and touched-up) and a copyright release for all images.

The session must be redeemed by May 7, 2010 or the winning bidder must
be willing to wait until late June or early July to redeem. I'm due May
21st and I'm guessing I might not want to take pictures right after
childbirth. Weird I know. ;)

These sessions range in price from $60 to $100 normally.

In addition to donating a photography session, I am in the process of making both therapy sacks and coffee cozies to be auctioned off. These are being made under my craft blog.

If you have any questions about the auction, please don't hesitate to
e-mail me at kristambenson@gmail.com. I won't be at the auction since
I'll be out of town starting Thursday through Monday.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T00:33:00.000-08:00

Season's Greetings!

Despite an interesting Christmas (explanation and picture to follow next week), me and my family wish you a wonderful Christmas.

-Krista

Announcing: Family and Portrait Sessions

2009-10-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

I will be doing Family and Portrait Sessions for Christmas presents and Christmas cards over the next two weekends (October 23, 24 and 25 and October 30, 31 and November 1st)

A standard family and portrait session includes approximately an hour session and five touch-ups. You get the copyrights for all the pictures taken. You are responsible for printing the pictures. (this method prevents high printing costs) You will get two CD's. One CD will have all the proofs and the other will have the pictures you chose to have touched-up. All the pictures will be outside at different locations I find. You will have the option of adding a personalized holiday card for an additional cost. I don't mind photographing pets; however, you have to consider that it will take a bit longer to get the shot.

If you would like to schedule a session or get more information, please e-mail me at kristambenson@gmail.com.

Hope to see you soon!
Krista

A & K

2009-10-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!
Finally, I'm going to post some wedding pictures that I took at the beginning of the school year. The pictures were pretty fun. It was a long day driving to and from, but the pictures definitely seemed worth it. Enjoy!

E & J Part III

2009-09-02T08:49:00.000-07:00

One last post of the E&J wedding. I absolutely love country churches. I'm glad I could use the country side in a couple of the pictures. I got married in a country church and it looked a lot like this church.

As you can see, the wedding party had some personality and came up with some of their own fun pictures. I absolutely love when people do that!

Beatles anyone?

How can you not love this dress?

Another shot of the beautiful dress...

I love pretty, happy, sweet brides!

E & J Part II

2009-08-31T14:35:00.000-07:00

Hello There!
I'm so insanely busy with work and school right now that I can barely find time to download pictures or work on pictures, but I'm going to post these pictures really quick. I did another wedding this last weekend and when I get around to uploading them, I'll post those picks.

-KB

E&J

2009-08-24T16:59:00.001-07:00

This weekend I had the pleasure of taking wedding pictures for two of the nicest people I have ever met. The wedding went very smooth and it was a great time. I have loads of pictures that I love and want to post on the blog. So, you'll probably see these two again! I am going to upload the proofs tomorrow, so there should be another post in the next couple of days. Enjoy!

M Family

2009-06-29T18:17:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I thought I would go ahead and post another group of family pictures. Since this was a big group, I took quite a few, but I only selected four to post. I didn't have time to touch these up either (My photoshop is four hours away this summer, so I only get to see it every few weeks.) I think the pictures are pretty good (but I still can't wait until I can pop the colors; however, it rained the morning of these pictures so the greens were pretty neat anyways)

Enjoy!

Bookmark this on Delicious

R Family

2009-06-27T15:09:00.000-07:00

Hi There,

I am finally going to post some pictures I took before school got out. I got these pictures ready for blog posting without touching them up. The finished products will be a bit brighter as well as sharper and the little things like undereye circles will be gone.

What a cute family!

Summer Stroll

2009-06-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

My husband and I decided to take a stroll by the river this last weekend and here are a few pictures we took.

Those darn beavers!

I love solar flare!

Classic Beauty

2009-06-23T20:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

It's be a while since I posted. I've been very busy with work and different things around the house. I did loads of projects this past week. I'm going to have hold off on posting pictures until I'm actually 100% done with the projects, but just to give you an idea of what I worked on: I painted my hand me down patio set (plastic spray paint rocks btw), stripped a dresser and end table, created an outdoor canopy for less than 50$ (quite proud of this one), painted the trim in our spare room (I'm seriously going to hurt who ever thought painting antique trim robin's egg blue was a good idea), and hung a bird house. I'm over halfway done with the projects and I think I should finish them all over the 4th.

I also spent a good chunk of the weekend working on pictures. I did all the beginning stages of working on seven different sessions. I have decided to post these pictures without touch-ups because I honestly don’t think the pictures need anything except a bit of color correction and smoothing out of various things. Hopefully after the 4th, I'll have six touched-up sessions to post. (It will be a post-a-thon between those sessions and my various projects!)

Enjoy the pictures!

April Showers...

2009-04-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

....Bring May Flowers!

I moved into my house a few years ago. The entire house was run down when we moved in. We've done quite a bit to fix the place up. All new windows, all new paint, new kitchen appliances, new sidewalks, new driveway....but one of the hardest things I have done personally (my dad did most of the grunt work otherwise) is build my flower bed in the front of the house. There was this sort-of rock garden in the front of the house before. I dug the entire thing up, put down the landscaping fabric and then put in the rock edging. I tried planting flowers, but to be honest I hate keeping up with it. I don't like plants and I usually kill them. So last year I planted some bulbs hoping I wouldn't have to replant every year. Well, those didn't come up. So in the fall I planted tulips and daffodils. I must have done something right because they are all coming up and some have bloomed! Here's my first successful flower!

Here's the tulip ready to bloom!

Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend? I Disagree....

2009-04-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

Hi There!
I spent my Easter weekend in Vegas with my family. My dad planned this huge surprise for my mom. She thought she was going just with him, and she was a bit bummed not to see me or my brother for Easter. So, my dad secretly flew me, my husband and my brother out to Vegas. When we were checking in, my dad casually brought my mom down to the lobby. Talk about a surprise!

So, while I was in Vegas, I went to the Coach outlet. Talk about purse heaven. *harps playing* I was lucky enough to get my signature tote from my husband for Christmas this last year, but I have now added two more purses to my collection. :) The first two pictured here are my new ones. I am absolutely done for a very long long time!

I also included a few pictures I took with my point and shoot. I don't travel with my nice camera. Just too much stress. Enjoy!

G Family

2009-04-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday!
I thought I would finally post some pictures I took a few weeks ago (before our spring blizzards!). The kids look pretty darn cute. I sometimes wish I was a little girl again and could wear fun Easter-like dresses. Kids always bring a certain amount of surprise with them. Just before we started taking pictures, we had a spill on the sidewalk. So, there was a little blood and tears, but over-all we got some smiles out of the gang. You just have to be patient!
Enjoy!

Puppy Playtime

2009-04-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I just had to post these pictures my husband took of our dogs. The first one is our little westie, Kaylee. She is a tomboy and refuses to stay clean. We end up giving her tons of bathes. She loves to find a mud puddle, lay on her back and rub herself into the mud. The next two are our german shorthair pointer, Cash. My husband took him out for a bit of training yesterday and took these pictures of him on point.
Enjoy!

Smart & Stunning!

2009-04-01T19:30:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Finally, I can post some pictures I took a week or so back. My stupid laptop decided to crash on me a few days ago. It didn't affect my pictures since I keep those backed up; however, I thought I had lost 200 or some flashcards I had made. I was ready to start using the laptop as a paper weight. Instead, I decided to do the Microsoft update that was available (since that crazy virus is going around)...and some how (who knows how!) my computer restored all my old documents when it restarted from the update. I'm not going to try to figure it out. I just backed everything up and hope that it doesn't happen again.

So, I can finally post these since that drama is over. These are some pretty gals I go to law school with. They are throwing a big ol' party for their graduation and their "party planner" wanted a few shots of them for a banner. You'll probably see some more of these girls since I'm also taking pictures at the graduation party.

Enjoy!

Spring Time!

2009-03-22T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

After a nice long week of homework, a spent a couple of hours Saturday with the dogs enjoying the nice spring weather. I decided to take a couple of pictures of the group! (minus Spencer...he's not a fan of the mud and grass like the other two) As you can tell, my little white dog loves the mud. She would eat all of it if possible. :)

I took some fun pictures of some cute kids and some pretty ladies on Saturday as well. I will post those as soon as I have them uploaded.

Enjoy the weather before it snows again! :)

Crafty Girl

2009-03-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
I have a blitz of pictures coming up, but I thought I would share another one of my hobbies. I don't think I shared these pictures when I took them a few months ago. In addition to playing around with photography, I also enjoy playing around with craft projects. I'm not particularly good at any one type of craft, but I certainly try all sorts of stuff...even if I don't finish it. I am currently working on two scrapbooks, two dressers and a quilt. I also discovered some amazing craft blogs and they are giving me so many ideas! (I highly recommend http://www.oneprettything.com/) So, I might have more pictures of projects to post in the near future. To help me with all my craft projects (which I love) and my homework (which I hate), I'm reorganizing my office area. My old desktop finally died on me, so I am going to store it away and use the extra space for my laptop and craft projects.
Anyways, the first project I have pictures of is three signs I made this last fall. I made stencils by printing off the letters on cardstock and cut out the letters with an exact-o knife. I recently found a more effective way of painting the signs with carbon paper; I think I might try that method in the near future. I found the unique fonts at http://www.dafont.com/ and http://www.1001fonts.com/.
The second project is a kennel cover for my little westie, Kaylee May. The cover really helps calm her down. She identifies the kennel as her little cave.
Spring break has been very productive in the creative department...not so much in the homework department. I think I might tackle that problem tomorrow.

Race Judicata!

2009-02-24T20:33:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I just wanted to pass along another design project I did for the law school. It's a 5K/1mile Run & Walk benefiting the Veterans Resource Center of Vermillion. If you're going to be around April 18, I hope to see you there!

Speaking of community service, the sessions we donated for the Public Interest Network Silent Auction sold. We raised $130 for PIN, which is great for a few hours work! I look forward to photographing the winners!

-KB

Great Plains Journal Symposium

2009-02-06T06:17:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I promised more design projects & here they are! I am a member of the Great Plains Journal, and have been organizing a luncheon for all our guests and professors. I created this invitation to be sent out to the faculty of the law school as well as the history and anthropology departments here at USD. Being a staff writer, I would encourage everyone to take part in this symposium. Not only is it interesting for law, anthropology, archaeology, and history students, but it includes topics that affect all of us in South Dakota no matter your career path. (Of course, I removed a bit of personal information from the invitation)

Press Release:
The “Great Plains Journal,” an academic journal produced by students at The University of South Dakota School of Law, is hosting a symposium, “Archaeology and the Law: How the Law Has Shaped Cultural Resource Management,” on Thursday, Feb. 12.

The symposium will begin at 10 a.m. in the Law School courtroom with a panel on the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. Other panels include fitting cultural resource management into economic development and management of the Missouri River. At 12 p.m., Robert K. Schneiders, assistant professor of history at USD, will speak at the National Music Museum about the events that led to the damming of the Missouri River, and at 7 p.m., keynote speaker P. Willey, professor of anthropology at California State University, Chico, will discuss his work with mass graves in Iraq. Willey's keynote address is sponsored by the USD Department of Anthropology. The symposium is free and open to the public.

"South Dakota has a wealth of cultural resources; however, archaeology, and how it intersects with the law, is a topic which doesn't frequently arise in formal legal education," said Erin Bradley, "Great Plains Journal" editor-in-chief. "Given the state's unique tribal heritage and the wealth of experienced professionals in South Dakota, the archaeological-legal synthesis is one which is relevant to the region in many ways. The Journal is excited to expose students, legal professionals, and the lay community to this fascinating and salient area of the law."
The "Great Plains Journal" provides readers with scholarly and practical articles dealing with resource management and policy issues pertinent to the Great Plains regions of the United States and Canada. Published twice a year, the "Great Plains Journal" contains interdisciplinary articles by leading members of the legal profession and other fields, as well as student notes and comments.

Design Dizzy

2009-02-03T12:43:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I have been so busy with design projects! For now, I will post the first project I worked on. I did some Save-the-Date cards for one of my friends. I'm not sure if these are going to be the finished product. I like to create a bunch of designs, send them to the couple and then work on a final design based on their responses. Sometimes they love the first round. Other times it might take a second round. So, we'll see if I end up creating a different product for them! In a couple of days when things slow down, I'll post some invitations I created and some signs. I think I might also do some work with the Woman in Law organization on a Breast Cancer Fundraiser. So, there might be fun invitations and signs around campus for that organization in the next couple of weeks.

Of course, the projects have had some personal information removed (makes them less pretty, but safer)..and I should note I didn't take their engagement pictures. I just got to dress them up a bit. ;)

-KB

Make it a Day On, Not a Day Off

2009-01-16T08:42:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!
I just wanted to post about something really neat going on around the country this coming Monday. As you probably know, it's Martin Luther King, Jr., Day. Many of you will have school off or maybe work. If this is true, make it a day on, not a day off. Around the country groups are committing to community service projects. The organization that is spear heading this is called, "Martin Luther King, Jr., Day of Service."

Here in Vermillion, there is a whole day of projects planned. The community will be meeting at the high school at around 11:00 am for breakfast. From there you are randomly placed in a group and each group has a different objective (ie collecting 500 cans of food). You'll work on this until 4:00 or 6:00.

For more information and to register for the event, visit: http://sites.google.com/site/sdmlkday/ You can register up until Monday! Just think of the work that can be done on this day if everyone takes the time to help their community out. Plus, with these economic times, it's important to help those around us effected.

Hope to see you Monday!

Started Thinking about Valentine's Day Yet?

2009-01-10T13:27:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

It's been a while since I've posted! It was a busy holiday season for me, but now I'm back to school. In early December, I took some pictures of a very lovely lady as a Christmas present for her significant other. Since it's after Christmas, I can finally post some of the images. You may have noticed by now that none of my intimate pictures on my blog have my clients face. If I do take your intimate pictures, you will have teaser images like the ones on my blog, but the vast majority contain your face. So, the only one who knows you did the pictures are you, your significant other and me. And, I'm not telling anyone. :) I thought I would clear up that bit of confusion people have had.

Intimate pictures work great for Valentine's Day gifts! Since the day is fast approaching, I encourage everyone to make appointments within the next week or so. I usually take the pictures in the evening, and can only schedule one a day. I'm thinking the vast majority of the pictures will be done the weeks of January 18-24 and January 25-31. Therefore, spots are filling up quickly! Contact me at kristambenson@gmail.com for information! Remember that I only do this as a fun hobby, so I have to work around my two jobs and school.

Enjoy the pictures and have a great day!

'Tis The Season!

2008-12-07T21:32:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!
I took another study break...I know..I'm good at that part...and designed a few Christmas cards. I originally designed the "Holly Jolly" card for my husband and I, but I haven't found a picture to use for it. I decided to instead give the design to one of my clients, because I'm not sure if I like the light blue and pale pink card I originally made for them. I might just end up doing the silly thing and actually purchasing a design for my husband and I. Who knows...I haven't thought that far in advance.
Well, enjoy the designs. I should use this post to let everyone know that I'm going to be done with the semester on Wednesday December 10th, which means I'll be open for sessions again. If you'd like to get an intimate session in for Christmas or get engagement or family pictures while everyone is out of school, just let me know! kristambenson@gmail.com
-KB

C, H, & A Family

2008-12-07T19:52:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!
It's been a while since I posted. I am in the middle of our two finals weeks in law school. I'm done with two of the harder finals and have one left on Wednesday. So, I took a study break today to upload some family pictures I took a while ago. Working with children is so different than engagements or seniors. Patience is definately the key...as well as the ability to capture a smile. (more difficult than it seems!)

I've include some of the formal pictures that worked, plus some of my favorite candids or bloopers if you will.

Shout-Outs

2008-11-20T13:45:00.001-08:00

Hey There!

I often (and by that I mean at least once a week) get asked for my recommendations for vendors for weddings. I think everyone knows that I was quite submersed in wedding planning and vendor research last year...instead of school. Oops. :p So, I thought I would just try to kill two birds with one stone, and give my recommendations via my blog.
My first recommendation is of course a wedding photographer! I personally made a decision to go the "cheap" route...and I unfortunately got the "cheap" result. A lesson lived, a lesson learned. I would personally recommend AC Ellis. She is a photographer in Brookings but is willing to travel. You might be spending more than you budgeted for, but you're going to get the result you pay for. The quality of her work is above and beyond many local photographers. (And definitely above my amateur work...leagues above :) ). She also offers wonderful intimate sessions which make great wedding or anniversary gifts. I stalk her blog quite frequently. One of her other photographers, Maria, is a bit newer at the wedding photography business...but her photographs are equally amazing.

My second recommendation is a DJ. The DJ we used was DJ Jer. He was highly recommended on The Knot. He definitely delivered. We had Jeremy (the Jer in DJ Jer). That night we had many compliments and plenty of phone calls afterwards asking us for the name and number of the DJ. He did exactly what we asked...but better.

The third recommendation I have is the florist we used, Flowers on Main. I didn't think that I was going to care about my flowers. I just went with the place that the first person I talked to recommended. Once I saw the flowers that day, I knew that I did care! I absolutely fell in love once I saw them. I actually had someone compliment my flowers in the receiving line. If I had a "do over," I would absolutely pick them again.

My last recommendation would be for a bridal shop. I personally went to David's Bridal and mostly had a good experience. Recently, I went out with a friend shopping for her wedding dress, and was very impressed with the French Door in Sioux Falls. There new location is nice, and their employees were helpful.

I would recommend a reception location, but I didn't really have a great experience with either location. The first location we had booked cancelled one month before the wedding...after our invitations had gone out. The second location was kind enough to pick us up with short notice, but the service that evening was a bit pushy and lack-luster. So, since I have nothing good to say, I'm going to say nothing at all and not name either location or my photographer.

Hope that helps some of you! I should be back to posting pictures in the next couple of days..then it's time to study for finals! I'm almost done with 1.5 of my law school experience!

-KB

I've included a picture AC Ellis took last fall as an engagement picture of me and my hubby. Aren't the colors wonderful!?!? Plus, Adam's eyes are actually open. That rarely happens. :)

Picture is the property of AC Ellis

A Family's Best Friend

2008-11-17T08:18:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I was frequenting a pet photographer's blog I love and saw a post about one of her clients who had passed away. The photographer encouraged people to photograph their pets before they passed. I felt particularly touched by this post since last week my parents put our 15-17 year old basset-beagle mix to sleep. I'm not overly upset by this since it was really for the best. She wasn't feeling good and couldn't do anything she loved to do (walk, jump on you while covered in mud, escape under the chain length fence, and dig massive holes to China in my mother's garden). So, her passing isn't really much of a surprise.

However, a few months ago, I felt that DD might be reaching her end and felt it was important to take a few portraits. This one is easily my favorite because I've had several people note that she looks like she's laughing/smiling. So, I pass along the message of the pet photographer I love so much...take pictures of your pets!

Ironic enough, on Saturday, I signed up my three dogs for a photo shoot with my favorite photographer, AC Ellis. She's doing the pictures as a fundraiser for the Brookings Humane Society. She might still have some spots open if you're interested. It's only 45$ and you get a release for one picture. Just call or visit the Brookings Humane Society to sign up.

Enjoy the rest of your day!

-KB

Save-The-Date!

2008-11-05T17:04:00.000-08:00

Hi There!

I spent the afternoon finishing up some Save-The-Date cards I had promised to do. I just learned how to use a couple of different tools, so it was fun to play around with Photoshop. I am going to try to make some Christmas cards in a few days. If I can ever wrangle my own family together, I might attempt some self family portraits of us...but that might be overly ambitious for me, my hubby and three dogs. We'll see! Until then, enjoy your week and hopefully you'll stay warm during the impending blizzard.

-KB

Rock the Vote!

2008-11-04T09:40:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!
Regardless of who you're going to vote for or what position you take on the issues, it's important you exercise your civic duty and vote today. Can you believe how landmark this election is? I will definitely be telling my grandchildren about this election one day.
Don't forget to vote!!!
-KB

Delicious Design

2008-10-29T22:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends!

The other day, I finished up some pictures and decided to mess around in Photoshop. I'm throwing a party in a few weeks, so I decided to create an invite for the event. I just started experimenting with brushes and the invite turned out pretty good. I'm going to use the same method to create some Save-The-Date cards and Christmas cards for clients. Enjoy the pictures...and please forgive the large black spots...I covered up some of the personal information...

-KB

A & E Family

2008-10-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Whew...this is the last new post. I took this family session on Sunday. It was absolutely the best day for pictures. We took advantage of the weather and headed down to the river. I think everything turned out pretty nice. Family pictures look great on Christmas cards...e-mail me for session information! kristambenson@gmail.com
-KB

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B & L Family

2008-10-20T20:00:00.001-07:00

Hi There!
This is the second session from Friday. I haven't taken many pictures of kids previously. You certainly have to learn how to work with them....and have to be prepared for lots of blurry pictures. Kids never stop moving!
-KB

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K & A Engagement

2008-10-20T19:16:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
If you read my blog, you're about to be bombarded by posts! I did three sessions this weekend and just got the proofs uploaded. The first was this engagement session of K & A on Friday morning. It was a bit chilly, but seemed to warm up as the session went on. Fall is almost over, so if you're interested in a outdoor session before Christmas, make sure you schedule one in the next few weeks! kristambenson@gmail.com
Enjoy..and there is more to come!
-KB

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Tough Choice

2008-10-07T21:15:00.000-07:00

Hi There,
Today I took engagement pictures for these cute two. We went to several different locations and I probably could have kept going until dark. I picked out a few of favorites, but to be honest, it was a hard decision. I really liked a majority of the pictures. I always think it's interesting to gauge my favorites against a client's favorites. I am looking for color and composition whereas many clients just want to look good. (And don't we all? I do the same thing with my own pictures) Enjoy!
-KB

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Promise.

2008-10-04T19:21:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!
On Friday I got the privilege of shooting engagement pictures for this fine looking couple. I finally used some of the new locations I had scouted a few weeks ago. I have two more engagement sessions planned in the next two weeks; along with two family sessions. Busy, Busy, Busy. If you're interested in planning a session, contact me via kristambenson@gmail.com.
-KB

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Absolutely Adorable

2008-09-29T16:54:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!
I had the pleasure of taking pictures of these pretty girls last Friday. We had planned on taking pictures last week, but the day we had originally scheduled wasn't ideal. It was rainy, windy and cold out. So, we rescheduled for Friday. It ended up being warm and humid. Figures, huh? Oh well, the girls were so sweet and well-behaved regardless of the weather. I think the pictures turned out pretty good. If you'd like to schedule a session for your family, contact me at kristambenson@gmail.com

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Twins Win!

2008-09-29T08:45:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!
This weekend was definitely a busy one. On Friday I had a children session with the two cutest girls. The images turned out great considering everyone's patience was tested by the unexpected heat and humidity. On Saturday, I golfed in a charity tournament sponsored by the law school. It was quite a bit of fun even if our team got the worst score. We had two girls that hadn't golfed much if at all. It was certainly a learning experience.
On Sunday, my husband, my brother and I met my parents in the twin cities for the last game of the Twins v. Royals series. The Twins game away with a win but haven't officially made it to the post season yet. The Chicago White Sox play the Tigers tonight. If the Sox lose, the Twins are in. If the Sox win, the Twins have to go to Chicago for a one game play-off. So, at our house tonight, we're all Tigers fans. :)
Only 81 more games in the Metrodome! Then, it's time for outdoor baseball in the cities! We've already decided we're going to purchases tickets to the last game in the dome the minute they go on sale. We have a feeling it's going to be an exciting game regardless of who we play or where we're in the standings.
Go Tigers!
-KB

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Now Scheduling Fall Portait Sessions

2008-09-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! As you've probably noticed, it's starting to feel like fall. Fall is a wonderful time to have pictures taken. The changing colors make a great backdrop for engagement, children, family or senior pictures. Fall pictures also work great for Christmas cards. I've had several people inquire about scheduling a session within the next month. So, if you think you may want fall pictures, e-mail me at kristambenson@gmail.com for availability and pricing. Family, children, engagement and senior pictures start at $60.00. I'm also hoping to experiment with a new genre of photography in the next month. You may have heard of them: "Trash the Dress" pictures. These portraits are an edgy version of wedding pictures. I should have examples to post in the next couple of weeks hopefully. Enjoy your weekend! -KB *Facebook Users: Click "View Original Post" to See Photographs* *Click on Photographs to Enlarge*

Slow Upgrades

2008-09-06T17:53:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I hope everyone has been really busy this week with classes starting. I should be working on writing some law related articles, but I have been trying to distract myself as much as possible. Hense, the blog post! I don't have any new pictures to post at the moment. I have several sessions planned over the next month or so, so new pictures should be coming soon. I'm hoping to scout out some new locations around the area tomorrow. However, I did finally update my website. Now, I still kept it scaled down, so I didn't reload my www website. (I think a new flash website will have to wait until I graduate from law school). I kept the very basic layout I had before, but updated the various branding. I also added an intimate portfolio section. Enjoy!

http://kristamariephotography.tripod.com/.

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'Brand' New

2008-08-27T14:14:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I am between sessions at the moment and don't have many new pictures to post. However, I have been working hard today to get my new branding together. A few months ago I started to get together a "brand" to make my marketing material a bit more cohesive. When I started taking wedding pictures two years ago, I just got a bunch of random stuff together. None of the colors were the same or the font. It didn't look like any of it belonged to the same 'business.' It has been driving me crazy since I did it. I decided a few months ago to slowly move things over to the new branding. This blog was one of my first projects. Today, I designed a new brochure and session price list. I just got new window clings as well as a new car magnet to use during photography jobs. It's exciting that everything is coming together.

If you're interested in a session and would like to see the new brochure and session price list, please e-mail me! (kristambenson@gmail.com)

-KB

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The Fam

2008-08-24T21:26:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!
I had a particularly fun day. I got to spend some time with friends, plus I got to work on some pictures. I finished up some intimate sessions as well as family pictures from my grandparent's anniversary party. At the party, I had about ten minutes to find a location for family pictures, and this was the best I could find. The location isn't all that bad, but the lighting was a killer. Oh well, the pictures didn't turn out all that bad nonetheless. I personally love the "silly" picture. It perfectly describes my family.
-KB

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Hectic Lifestyle

2008-08-23T00:08:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

My life went from being pretty laid back (borderline lazy) to crazy hectic in about one week. I've been touching up pictures from the last two intimate sessions as well as some family pictures from my grandparents' 50th wedding anniversary party last week. The anniversary was a really fun time. My parents were also celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. When my husband and I were picking our wedding date, we didn't realize we were picking this special year. So, on our 25th anniversary, our parents will be celebrating their 50th. It's kinda a neat surprise.

I also started law school this week. So, I've been keeping busy with class, homework, plus I'm writing a paper for one of the journals at the school. On top of all that, I'm working a temporary position at the local bookstore. It's been a crazy week! I haven't gone to bed so early in months..I just crash at 8:00 pm every night.

I took sometime out yesterday to go out in the country with my husband and watch him run our puppy. The puppy is a German Shorthair Pointer, and my husband is teaching him to hunt/point (or rather trying to keep him from pointing at every little thing). I took a few images of the countryside. Nothing too exciting, but they don't need to be touched-up, so I can post them easily.

I'm hoping to get the family pictures touched-up and posted in the next couple of days, as well as, finish up some intimate pictures and get them shipped out. Thanks for being patient everyone!

-KB

Can you see the little ant on the flower?

I thought this weed/grass was really pretty. I love the vibrant colors.

Nothing special, but I just love the tall grass in the country.

My grandparents! This picture cracks me up. Two of my cousins put their hats on them after they arrived in this Model-T Ford. (Not a too shabby car)

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Another Sexy One!

2008-08-12T23:19:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!
I just got done uploading the pictures from today's intimate session. This session was really fun. The outfits that my client brought were great. The colors just punched on the screen. It's always fun to play around with color. I just booked another intimate session this weekend and a possible maternity session. (my first!) I also will be attending my grandparent's 50th wedding anniversary. I'm hoping to capture some "magic" at the event. (Maybe they'll give each other some goo-goo eyes?!) Ta-ta until then!
-KB

div>

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Yet Another Foxy Lady

2008-08-12T12:36:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I had the opportunity to shoot another intimate session last night. The pictures turned out fabulous. As I always say, it's easy to take great pictures with a great girl. She had such a fun personality...what a hoot to shoot. The picture with the tie is my favorite even if it pushes the envelope a bit. I couldn't help but post it. She looks so good in it! I have another intimate session this evening, and I look forward to trying even more new things

-KB

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Summer Sun

2008-08-09T18:25:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I finally uploaded some of the pictures from my mini summer vacation. My husband and I went to his family's cabin in Northern Wisconsin. This is my third summer visiting the cabin, and it's still just as beautiful as the first time I went. This time we brought all three dogs, and it was quite the trip...to say the least. Now, it's back to the real world. I have two intimate sessions this week, so I'll have some new pictures to post in the next couple days. I'll also be working on this monster paper I need to get done. Alas, summer is almost over!

~KB

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Fading Quickly

2008-07-29T01:48:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
Thankfully, today has been a better day! I spent the weekend with my brother and mother who were visiting from the other side of the state. I appreciate those who tried to cheer me up. My job is ridiculously stupidly stressful sometimes, and the little things can bother me easily after a rough day. This being said, I'm still not going to post the last two sessions of intimate pictures at the request of one of my clients. It's understandable that she didn't want pictures posted even if they didn't include her face. It was a miscommunication about the purpose of the sessions. I'll clarify this with the next couple of clients and get some pictures posted in the future. If you were thinking about booking an intimate session and would like to see examples, I can send you the private link for my portfolio. Just contact me at kristambenson@gmail.com.

Next week I'll be taking loads of pictures....but they won't be my usual. Check back in a couple of weeks when I post them. :) Until then I'll be enjoying the rest of my summer...only a few weeks until classes start.

I'll leave you with a picture of one of my favorite wedding gifts, our hanging wine rack.

-KB

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Sorry Guys...

2008-07-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

Hey There!
I write this after a hard and very long day. (and I mean long) I'm no longer going to post pictures of the intimate sessions online. I really want to. I'm proud of the work I have done. I've received some responses requesting I remove the pictures. I understand these requests and am going to respect these wishes. However, I do need to clarify something for those who are and may choose to do the free intimate and play sessions in the future. As I stated in previous blogs, the point of the sessions are to help me improve my pictures and thus my portfolio. As such, these pictures will appear in public. If you are uncomfortable with the idea of your picture appearing in public, then the play sessions are not for you. You can certainly contact me for prices of sessions. It does cost both money and time to edit, upload and take the pictures and as such I ask for payment in the form of pictures I can use in my portfolio. Please keep this mind before agreeing to do a session.
Thank you for all of those who have volunteered to be models, and I look forward to taking your pictures.

Perhaps a Wedding or Two?

2008-07-15T01:24:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

First of all, I'd like to thank everyone who responded to both my offer of intimate and play sessions. I plan on scheduling these sessions within the next week (look out for an e-mail if you did contact me!). I did recieve a few e-mails about scheduling sessions later on this summer and fall. If you contact me within the next few days, I'll go ahead schedule these pictures for the later summer/early fall. After this week, I'm going to suspend the play sessions until further notice. The response has been great, and I'm very excited to get started "playing" around.

Also, I'm thinking about taking wedding pictures again. I've had a few requests within the last month. If you're interested, please let me know. I'll have to look a my schedule to see if I'm available.

And since no post is complete without a picture, I've included a picture of my beautiful puppy Kaylee. She was a wedding present from my husband, and is turning out to be a sweetheart. (However, she's barking and attacking her brother right now..so perhaps not completely a sweetheart just yet)

-KB
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Attention You Pretty Ladies!

2008-06-15T20:24:00.000-07:00

Hey You Brave Ladies!

I'm looking for some models for some very *tasteful* intimate pictures. These pictures are all about making you feel sexy, cute and most of all, empowered. Even if you don't show them to others, it's nice to have them to look at..now and years from now when you may not feel as attractive.

If you haven't heard of this new trend with intimate pictures, they are pictures you generally take for your significant other. You can print a few pictures for him or make an entire book. If you look for boudoir photography or intimate photography with any search engine, you can find examples.

Don't feel conceded for getting the pictures...everyone needs a little time for themselves. Plus, if you choose to share them, it really is a gift for another. :) Don't worry if you have the perfect body..everyone beautiful the way they are. We can definitely create some amazingly sexy images no matter your body type.

These pictures are apart of my "Play Date" sessions so the same limitations apply:

1) I get to pick how many and which pictures to touch up. I will give you a CD with all the high resolution pictures (not touched-up) regardless, but if I decide to touch some up, I'll e-mail them on to you in case you want to print them. All these sessions will also come with a copyright release so you can print which ever pictures however many times you please.
2) No time limits. I may shoot you for an hour or I might keep you all day (if you'd like that is). Also, there are no guarantees on how long your CD will take or how long the touch-ups will take. Generally, online proofing is available within a week, but no guarantees with these "Play Sessions."
3) Since these sessions are for play, the poses/locations will be all my choice. You can choose your wardrobe, but I want to be able to experiment with light in the studio.

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Play Date

2008-06-09T21:14:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone,

As many of you know, my least favorite part of photography is charging people. I hate to deal with money and all the problems it brings with it. So, why don't I just not charge people? Sounds like a great idea. So, until I get tired of it, I'm going to offer what I like to call "Play Sessions" to you all for FREE! These "Play Sessions" allow me to try new things without the added pressure of charging clients. So, if you'd like family, engagement, senior, intimate/boudoir pictures taken of you for free, just contact me via e-mail (thepromproject@gmail.com) or facebook me.

These "Play Sessions" have a few restrictions though.

1) Weddings are not included. Weddings take much more time and personalized attention than other sessions. Plus, why would you want to "play" around with pictures of your special day?

2) I get to pick how many and which pictures to touch up. I will give you a CD with all the high resolution pictures (not touched-up) regardless, but if I decide to touch some up, I'll e-mail them on to you in case you want to print them. All these sessions will also come with a copyright release so you can print which ever pictures however many times you please.

3) No time limits. I may shoot you for an hour or I might keep you all day (if you'd like that is). Also, there are no guarantees on how long your CD will take or how long the touch-ups will take. Generally, online proofing is available within a week, but no guarantees with these "Play Sessions."

4) Since these sessions are for play, the poses/locations will be all my choice. You can choose your wardrobe, but I want to be able to experiment with light in the studio and outside. So, depending on the session and the day, I'll choose outside or in.

If you have any questions or are interested, make sure you drop me an e-mail. I look forward to "playing" with you!

And, of course, no post is complete without a picture:

PS: If you can't see the picture and you're in facebook, click "View Original Post" and you'll be taken to the actual blog where you can see pictures.

-KB

Adam and Michele 6-7-2008

2008-06-08T01:32:00.000-07:00

Whew. I'm so tired! Yesterday, I drove 7 hours across the state and today, I spent all day taking wedding pictures for Adam and Michele. Their wedding was beautiful! I didn't cry at my own wedding, but I teared up at theirs. Go Figure. That always seems to happen to me. Cry at other people's weddings, but not my own. :) The pictures turned out great, and I couldn't help but download them tonight (even if I want to pass out from lack of sleep..my eyes are ready to fall out of my head). Here are some of my favorites...enjoy and good night!

-KB

Wedding on the 7th!

2008-06-01T22:39:00.000-07:00

Hello!
I'm gearing up for a wedding on the 7th..and getting really excited for it! The couple is a friend of a friend. They are both fun people and their wedding should be a blast. I can't wait to post some pictures. Then, the weekend after that is the family's DC trip (I believe..I need to look at a calendar)...
However, the best news of all...I'm married! I'm now Krista Benson. It was a wonderful day. Natasha Smith of NL Portrait took the pictures in Brookings. I'm waiting for the pro pictures, but I have a few snapshots from friends.

Later -KB

Super Fun Senior Pictures!

2008-04-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

I had a very pleasant break from studying today. I took some senior pictures; which may be my favorite subject of all. The girl was beautiful and all the pictures turned out wonderful. I don't even think I need to touch them up!

Beautiful Beth

2008-04-14T18:34:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I thought I'd post a few pictures of my session with Beth. She's going to be participating in the Miss South Dakota pageant, and she needed updated head shots. I played around with back lighting, and it turned out pretty good! The last one is my personal favorite. I love different angles, but I'm not sure if Miss South Dakota is ready for it. ha ha.

Playing with Light!

2008-04-09T11:48:00.000-07:00

I realized last week, I haven’t been using my wonderful camera nearly enough. So, I decided I needed to take some pictures. Spencer wouldn’t sit still to be my subject, so I had to go with something that doesn’t move. I had just picked up my wedding band that day as well as received my shoes in the mail. I decided they would just have to do for the day. Here are a couple of images I took. I am trying to get better at playing with light. It’s the most important thing with pictures, and it’s the hardest thing for me to master. I am taking some headshots for a fellow law school student tomorrow, and I might also take some pictures for a friend of my mine. (She has a young son that is just so cute). I’ve been meaning to take pictures for her, but the communication has been off between the two of us. So, enjoy these pictures, and I’ll probably post some more in the next couple days :)

The Power of the Touch-Up

2008-03-03T15:45:00.000-08:00

It's hard for me to post pictures without them being touched-up. I feel like every picture could use a little work. It's my future sister-in-law's birthday on Thursday, so I decided to get a picture of her and her husband printed. His glasses are impossible...they always have glare! I just wanted to show you what can be done in about 45 minutes on just one picture.

This is the "before" picture.

And here is the after picture.

Happy Valentines Day!

2008-02-16T12:32:00.000-08:00

It's a bit belated, but I'd like to wish everyone a Happy Valentines Day! My fiance and I spent the night working on some surprises for our guests at our wedding. Since we had drug out our lights to work on this "surprise" we decided to take a couple of pictures. They turned out pretty good considering we were using the remote to take the pictures and I haven't had the chance to touch them up yet. Of course, I included more pictures I took of my Spencer. He's such a camera hog. ha ha.

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-23T20:24:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Everyone!

I has an early Christmas with my fiance's family yesterday. They asked to take a quick family picture, but I'm not really able to take a "quick" picture, especially with groups. I took this picture of the family. (Notice how I had to pose the group) Sadly, since I'm now across the state with my family, I can't touch up the pictures (to remove the glare). I'll have to do that at a later time! Have a good holiday!

(Click on picture to enlarge)

The only one not looking is my dog (son) Spencer.

Andy with Spencer

Spencer is all dressed up in his fancy sweater!

Nellie and Brandon

Mr. Peepers

Haley Jo...she was all tuckered out from hunting earlier in the day.

Adam and Haley Jo.

Haley Jo

Dogs, Dogs, Dogs

2007-12-08T00:57:00.000-08:00

This time of year is pretty slow when it comes to weddings, engagements and senior pictures. So, prior to finals, I had a bit of time to photograph my favorite four legged friends. The first two corgi puppies, Bella and Buck, are my fiance and I's friend, Amy's. They are absolutely adorable. It was hard at times to slow them down...they love to play with each other. The second dog is my mutt of a dog, DD. I got DD for my ninth birthday (and I'm quite a bit older now)...DD is definately in her retirement years. She's just about the nicest dog ever. Her kindness has gotten her in trouble a couple of times. Being a hound, she likes to escape and being a lover, she likes to lick the animal control officer. The third dog I'm featuring is my fiance's dog Haley. She'd a german shorthair pointer. We're actually on the waiting list for a german shorthair this spring. We should have our new "daughter" a couple weeks after our wedding. Finally, I couldn't post pictures of dogs, without featuring my "son" Spencer. He's a humane society reject, but he's absolutely wonderful. He's actually sick right now, so I've been spending the day babying him until I can get him to the vet in the morning. When he's not feeling good, he likes to hide from me. I've so far caught him behind the toliet, under the table, behind the garbage can, and under the bed tonight alone. Hopefully, the weather is too bad tomorrow so I can get him to the vet first thing in the morning.

New Blog!

2007-12-03T20:48:00.000-08:00

As many photographers do, I am entering the blogging world. It's a great way to instantly show work as well as communicate what is going on with my life. I have my first law school final tomorrow, and it's crunch time! My study break tonight was to make this blog up real quick. I spent the weekend working on some pictures (much like every weekend!) and studying in between.

I currently have two projects in the works. I'm making a book of South Dakota landscape pictures. I'm trying to work on each season. So once we've got some pretty snow, I'll be out and about taking some pictures. I also have started a book with pictures of various dogs . I'm a HUGE dog lover, so I love to photograph them. I'll post some pictures as I go. If you have a dog that you'd like photographed, I do them for free! It doesn't matter if you think you're dog is cute or not, although..don't we all think our dogs are cute?!? I'll leave this post with one of the pictures I worked on this weekend. This beautiful bride is Annie. I worked with her this fall and let me tell you, she has the cutest daughter EVER! I have also included some pictures of various landscapes I've taken over the past couple months. Enjoy!