A BRAND NEW LOOK!

Just a quick note to announce the new look and new branding of Angie Seaman Photography. I spent a great deal of time with my web designer over the past couple of weeks re-vamping my website, blog, twitter page and adding a new facebook fan page to the Angie Seaman Photography collection. I poured my heart and soul into this new look so I hope all of you like it.

I wanted a fresh and colorful new look that represented my style. Crystal, my web gal, did a phenomenal job, (as always) in regard to bringing my visions to life. Thanks Crystal. I love ya girl!

Feel free to drop by our new facebook fan page and "like" our page. I'll be doing a big contest there starting tomorrow with a FAB give-a-way. Jump in on the fun. We'd love to have ya.

As a side note and FYI...I'm also offering a $100 print credit included in any session fee when you book a shoot with me. That is a limited time offer in celebration of the new branding so get in on it while the gettin' is good. Feel free to email me directly at Angie@AngieSeamanPhotography.com with any questions.

Lastly, this is the last week to sign up for my online beginner photography class and my online beginner photoshop class. If you'd like to register for either one of those classes, you can do so by going HERE and clicking on the "classes" page. Good times! Until the next post, have a ROCKIN' week! Much love, Angie

PS...Blogger has been giving me fits lately. My account is acting up and not letting me publish posts here on the blog. I've had to go to alternative measures to get it posted. I'm hoping they get this glitch fixed soon but blogger never seems to fix anything fast. Boo! I'm also missing blog comments that come through. Some of you have emailed me asking if I got your comment here on the blog and apparently I'm not getting all of them. Another BOO~! Again, I'm hoping all of these issues receive some attention quickly. In the meantime, thank you for your patience. Love you guys! :)

TRASH THE DRESS - PART 3 (NAPLES, FLORIDA PHOTOGRAPHER)

If I would've had a photographer look at me and say "OK, now it's time to get dirty - let's head into the swamp pond," you would've seen me take off running like a bat out of hell. No joke! However, this bride was ready for what was dished out to her. She climbed into that muddy swamp - alligator/snake/fish pond - like it was just another tub of bath water she was climbing into. As her feet hit the squishy mud, I never heard a "I can't do this! or OH gross!" Nothing. She just walked right into it and then worked these images like a PRO!

Many of you have emailed me or posted on facebook regarding how scared you were for these brides being in this environment. Trust me...no one was more scared for them than me. Ha ha! I had my eye out the entire time for anything that even so much as moved a millimeter within that water. Aside from the baby tadpoles and the one gigantic water spider that was on one of the brides at the end, all went down without any trip ups.

Mrs. C's make-up was done by Gabby Verderamo from Salon International here in Naples, Florida. Another awesome make-up artist, clearly! And her hair was done by Daniel at Salon International as well. Such great talents!

I'm still amazed at how these make-up artists and the hair stylists got these brides to look so great after 3-4 hours in the hot Florida sun. Their make-up never ran, their hair never faltered. The rest of us present on location however, looked like a crew of fireman had just hosed us down from head to toe. Literally! There is something to be said for the work these creative masters did with hair and make-up during these sessions.

Another big thank you (again) to my Naples Photography girlfriends for holding my reflector over Mrs. C's head in some of these images as I captured the shots. I couldn't have done it without you Megan and Jennifer. You girls ROCK!

On a side note, my last set of photography classes that I'll be teaching for this year are up on my website and ready for registration if any of you are interested. The last beginner photography class of the year begins October 4 and runs for 4 weeks. If you have ever wanted to learn how to use your camera, what all of the functions, bells and whistles are about as well as learn the basics to taking better photographs, this class is definitely for you. I'm also offering one more photoshop post processing class on October 13th. This is the class where you watch me work LIVE on images straight out of the camera. We take those images from point A to point B in the post processing editing stage. If you are new to photoshop or have photoshop elements and would like to learn beginner editing basics, jump in on this class with us. There are only 10 seats available for it. Seats are going fast in both classes because everyone knows they are the last ones I'll be offering until next year due to my up and coming maternity leave. YAY! 26 weeks this week - only 13 more weeks to go before baby Seaman arrives via c-section on December 2nd. Can you tell that I'm excited? LOL!

So...if you are interested in any of the above classes or even some one on one LIVE photoshop training that is conducted privately between you and I via computer, click HERE for more details or to sign up. If you reside in Florida and would like to spend a mentoring day with me one on one, I offer private training for photography, cameras, and editing during my mentor sessions. There are plenty of options for everyones needs. I'd love to have you join me in any of my classes for last half of this year. Until tomorrows part 4 - "Trash the Dress" post - enjoy your hump day.

Blessings, Angie

BEGINNER ONLINE PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS

Looking to learn how to use your camera better? Want to learn how to take better photographs of your kids? Do you want to get off the little green "auto mode" on your camera and learn how to shoot in manual instead? Does learning how to get those creamy/butter/blurred backgrounds like the pros interest you? If so, look no further. I'm once again offering the next round of photography classes via Angie Seaman Photography. This is just a reminder that the next class begins August 1st, 2010. Many of you have already registered and I've confirmed your seat in class if you have. Registration is still open with a few spots remaining. If you are interested in taking a beginner photography class that teaches you the basics of beginner photography, how to better use your camera and its settings, etc., then this class is for you.

The course is done online. There are no specific times each day that you must check in for class. You'll be given private access to a forum/discussion board where you can log in at any time throughout the day - as much or as little as you'd like. You make your own schedule. Some people check in everyday, others just check in a couple of times of week. We have one lesson a week that is posted on a certain day. Once posted, you are then given an assignment to do which pertains to that weeks lesson and what we've learned thus far. All questions and notes will be posted on the forum for everyone to read so that we all learn together. It's a very laid back atmosphere with zero pressure. You can participate as much or as little as you prefer. Of course the more you participate in the class, the more you learn. You have one week to turn in each assignment. I then "constructively critique" your assignment and let you know how great the shot is and/or how you can improve for next time. I'm on the board/forum everyday so I'm always there when someone has questions or needs additional help. As for what I'll discuss or teach during the 4 week class, here is a list of just some of the topics that we'll learn:

1) Getting tight and close with your images
2) Uncluttering a photograph
3) Framing your images in camera
4) Composition (rule of thirds) when shooting
5) ISO
6) White Balance
7) Changing up your angles
8) Aperture Priority Mode
9) Avoiding and forcing the flash
10) Your cameras highlight warning & what it means
11) Learning your histogram
12) Exposure compensation
13) What is burst/continuous mode?
14) Shutter Priority mode
15) Getting those soft creamy/blurry backgrounds like the pros 16) Graduating to "manual mode." ...and many other topics along the way.

Here are just a few of the comments and feedback I've received from past classes:

"This class has been amazing! I used to consider manual settings as impossible and scary but now that's my 'go to mode' and my camera is constantly set on it! All of a sudden my camera can do so much more than I ever realized it could... and that's all thanks to Angie! She is an incredible teacher, she's so encouraging and was willing to help whenever I had questions. I am so much more confident when using my camera now, and I finally know what all the numbers mean! I can't recommend this class enough, it's SO worth it!" ~Caroline

"Simply stated, this class was priceless. Angie has a unique way of explaining photography terms in everyday language that is easily understood. She is open and honest in the way she approaches photography. And she is encouraging and extremely "hands on" through out the entire class. The class forum is unlike any other I've ever been apart of. It's simple and easy to use. Angie invites questions of all sorts and answers them completely for each student. Angie Seaman is very gifted and artistic. She loves art, she loves life, and she loves sharing with the world through her pictures. Above all else, I've learned that "beauty is in the eye of she who holds the camera!!" ~Amanda in Texas

"This class ROCKS, as Angie would say!!! I have a Nikon D60, and have for the last year, I learned more about the options/menus of my camera in the first week, than the entire time i owned it!! I was able to tackle things, that I would have not tried, and really enjoyed it!! Angie is a great teacher, she is easy to communicate with and speaks in "human" terms, when it comes to teaching.. I was very happy taking this class, it is has been a great experience and very rewarding!! I am even more addicted to my camera than I was before, and I actually know how to use it, now!! Haha!" ~Christina in California

"Angie Seaman really knows her photography! She is a passionate teacher who is able to connect with all of her students. The forum is well organized and easy to use. I highly recommend taking this class. It is truly a gift that I have given myself. I encourage you to give yourself the same gift and sign-up for Angie's photography class! You are an amazing teacher and I love how you take complicated topics and turn it into manageable chunks for beginners to understand. I enjoy reading your writing and your personal photography is beautiful. I love how this class was organized as well. You can tell that you put a lot of time and effort into this class. Thank you very much! I would recommend this class to anyone and everyone. Plus, I can't wait to take other classes that you offer. I will continue to be a loyal reader of your blog and I am always available to give feedback to potential clients or customers." ~Bernie in Maryland

"I don't know if I can sum up how wonderful this class was in only a few sentences...I'll try. This photography class was hands down amazing! I was a little hesitant to sign-up for an online class thinking, how much can I really learn through the Internet?, but I totally proved myself wrong with how much I have walked away with. Before I was terrified of every button on my DSLR and now with Angie's stellar lessons and consistent feedback I feel more confident in capturing our life's important moments. Thanks again Angie...please keep me on your e-mail list if you should do a next level up class (okay you have to do another...no pressure)." ~Meg in Texas

"I am a busy mom of four kids. My lack of knowledge with my camera prevented me from trying anything other than point and shoot situations. Time is of the essence and I also needed someone I could trust to show me the ropes (not someone trying to sell me products or with their own "spin"). Enter Angie Seaman photography classes! Through Angie's class I learned what makes a photograph great, how to read all the settings on my camera (this was BIG for me) and it also took the intimidation out the huge manual for my camera. This class is easy to understand and simple to follow. I recommend to anyone wanting to sharpen their photography skills in a short amount of time. Thanks Angie!" ~Kristin

If you are ready for a basic, beginner, photography class...go HERE to sign up. From there, you can walk thru the registration process. Should you have any questions, please feel free to email me at Angie@AngieSeamanPhotography.com. Every single one of our classes in the past have always sold out. Don't wait...we'd love to have you. Blessings, Angie

ONLINE PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS REMINDER

I am once again offering the next round of photography classes via Angie Seaman Photography. This is just a reminder that the next set of classes begins March 1st, 2010. Some of you have already registered and I confirmed your seat in class if you have. Registration is still open with a few spots still remaining. If you are interested in taking a beginner photography class that teaches you the basics of beginner photography, how to use your camera and its settings, etc., then this class is for you.

You do not have to have a digital SLR to participate in our class. Any point and shoot will work as well. We discuss the pros and cons to both styles of cameras as well as the ins and outs for both designs. Next, the course is done online. There are no specific times each day that you must check in or anything. You will be given private access to a forum/discussion board where you could log in at any time throughout the day - as much or as little as you'd like. You make your own schedule with it. Some people check in everyday, others just check in a couple of times of week. We have one lesson a week that is posted on a certain day. Once posted, you are then given an assignment to do which pertains to that weeks lesson. All questions and notes will be posted on the forum for everyone to read so that we are all learning together. It is a very laid back atmosphere with no/zero pressure. You can participate as much or as little as you prefer. Of course the more you participate, the more you learn. You have one week to turn in each assignment. I then "constructively critique" your assignment and let you know how great the shot is and/or how you can improve for next time. Some students were really involved, some hung out and chimed in from time to time, and then there were some who didn't say much of anything on the forum but checked in for the lessons and the "silent" learning throughout the four week time period. I am on the board/forum everyday so I'm always there when someone has questions or needs additional help. As for what I'll discuss or teach during the 4 week class, here is a list of topics that we'll go over and learn:
1) Getting tight and close with your images
2) Uncluttering a photograph
3) Framing your images in camera
4) Composition (rule of thirds) when shooting
5) ISO
6) White Balance
7) Changing up your angles
8) Aperture Priority Mode
9) Avoiding and forcing the flash
10) Your cameras highlight warning & what it means
11) Learning your histogram
12) Exposure compensation
13) What is burst/continuous mode?
14) Shutter Priority mode
15) Graduating to "manual mode." ...and many other topics along the way.

Here are some of the comments and feedback I've received from past classes:

"This class has been amazing! I used to consider manual settings as impossible and scary but now that's my 'go to mode' and my camera is constantly set on it! All of a sudden my camera can do so much more than I ever realized it could... and that's all thanks to Angie! She is an incredible teacher, she's so encouraging and was willing to help whenever I had questions. I am so much more confident when using my camera now, and I finally know what all the numbers mean! I can't recommend this class enough, it's SO worth it!" ~Caroline

"Simply stated, this class was priceless. Angie has a unique way of explaining photography terms in everyday language that is easily understood. She is open and honest in the way she approaches photography. And she is encouraging and extremely "hands on" through out the entire class. The class forum is unlike any other I've ever been apart of. It's simple and easy to use. Angie invites questions of all sorts and answers them completely for each student. Angie Seaman is very gifted and artistic. She loves art, she loves life, and she loves sharing with the world through her pictures. Above all else, I've learned that "beauty is in the eye of she who holds the camera!!" ~Amanda in Texas

"This class ROCKS, as Angie would say!!! I have a Nikon D60, and have for the last year, I learned more about the options/menus of my camera in the first week, than the entire time i owned it!! I was able to tackle things, that I would have not tried, and really enjoyed it!! Angie is a great teacher, she is easy to communicate with and speaks in "human" terms, when it comes to teaching.. I was very happy taking this class, it is has been a great experience and very rewarding!! I am even more addicted to my camera than I was before, and I actually know how to use it, now!! Haha!" ~Christina in California

"Angie Seaman really knows her photography! She is a passionate teacher who is able to connect with all of her students. The forum is well organized and easy to use. I highly recommend taking this class. It is truly a gift that I have given myself. I encourage you to give yourself the same gift and sign-up for Angie's photography class! You are an amazing teacher and I love how you take complicated topics and turn it into manageable chunks for beginners to understand. I enjoy reading your writing and your personal photography is beautiful. I love how this class was organized as well. You can tell that you put a lot of time and effort into this class. Thank you very much! I would recommend this class to anyone and everyone. Plus, I can't wait to take other classes that you offer. I will continue to be a loyal reader of your blog and I am always available to give feedback to potential clients or customers." ~Bernie in Maryland

"I don't know if I can sum up how wonderful this class was in only a few sentences...I'll try. This photography class was hands down amazing! I was a little hesitant to sign-up for an online class thinking, how much can I really learn through the Internet?, but I totally proved myself wrong with how much I have walked away with. Before I was terrified of every button on my DSLR and now with Angie's stellar lessons and consistent feedback I feel more confident in capturing our life's important moments. Thanks again Angie...please keep me on your e-mail list if you should do a next level up class (okay you have to do another...no pressure)." ~Meg in Texas

"I am a busy mom of four kids. My lack of knowledge with my camera prevented me from trying anything other than point and shoot situations. Time is of the essence and I also needed someone I could trust to show me the ropes (not someone trying to sell me products or with their own "spin"). Enter Angie Seaman photography classes! Through Angie's class I learned what makes a photograph great, how to read all the settings on my camera (this was BIG for me) and it also took the intimidation out the huge manual for my camera. This class is easy to understand and simple to follow. I recommend to anyone wanting to sharpen their photography skills in a short amount of time. Thanks Angie!" ~Kristin

If you are ready for a basic, beginner, photography class...go HERE to sign up. Once there, click on "classes." From there, you can walk thru the registration process. Should you have any questions, please feel free to email me at Angie@AngieSeamanPhotography.com. All of our past classes have sold out. Don't wait...we'd love to have you. Blessings, Angie

CLASSES

Photoshop Post Processing Techniques

$99 (April 27th, 2011 from 7-9pm eastern time)

This class will be a LIVE online training class where I will walk you thru post processing techniques for your images. We'll discuss basic tips to bettering your images in the post editing process as well as review a handful of actions and some of the effects certain actions have on your images. Each student is asked to submit 5 images for the class that I will in turn possibly use to demonstrate how I take an image straight out of the camera and complete it within the post processing stage. If you've ever wanted to learn certain photoshop steps or see how a photographer edits from point A to point B with their photographs, this is the class for you. Geared toward beginner photoshop users. (Photoshop or Photoshop elements required) Maximum of 15 students. Register your seat now while there are still openings. To register, CLICK HERE.

Beginner Photography Classes (online)

$159 (Next class begins April 25th, 2011)

Do you have a new camera that has tons of bells and whistles that you don't know how to use but would love to learn? Do you have a blog that you'd like to learn how to take better photos for? Are you interested in photography but never know where to begin or how to get started? Do you have a desire to possibly start a photography business someday and just need help learning the basics in the meantime? Are you a Mom just looking to take better photographs of your children? Are you stuck on the auto mode feature but would love how to shoot in manual? If you answered yes to any of the above, then this is the course for you. The class is offered as a 4 week-instructor led-informative journey - conducted online - at your leisure. Once you've paid for and reserved your seat in the class, you are granted access to a private forum where everyone in the class learns together. You check in as you wish throughout the 4 weeks - reviewing and learning the lessons posted by the instructor. You have an open forum where you are able to ask any amount of questions you'd like and in turn receive a prompt response from your instructor. This open but yet private student forum also allows you to chat and connect with other students who are participating as well. Each student will have one assignment to complete and turn in each week for a critique via your instructor. There is also an area where you can upload and share your photos with others in the class while seeking praise & feedback from them and critiques from the instructor. Angie will teach you the power locked inside your DSLR and steer you toward how to get off the "green auto mode" button and how to begin unlocking your cameras potential and your creativity by learning to shoot in manual mode as well as the other modes offered on your camera. She will discuss those features and when best to apply them in varied shooting environments. Here are just a few of the many things you will learn while enrolled in the class...

1) Getting tight and close with your images

2) Uncluttering a photograph

3) Framing your images in camera

4) Composition (rule of thirds) when shooting

5) ISO

6) The importance of white balance

7) Changing up your angles

8) Aperture Priority Mode, Shutter Priority mode

9) Avoiding and forcing the flash

10) Your cameras highlight warning & what it means

11) Learning your histogram

12) Exposure compensation

13) What is burst/continuous mode?

14) Graduating to "manual mode."

This class is packed full of priceless information that comes via the ease of a personal instructor at your finger tips. In 30 days, you will have a much better understanding as to the features of your camera, when to apply them, as well as a better knowledge of basic beginner photography. For testimonials from past students, click HERE.

CLICK HERE to reserve your spot!

One on one private mentor sessions - $699

Have you ever wished you could spend one day with a photographer and just pick their brain and learn how they do what they do? Are you one that is more of a "visual" learner? If so, we've got help for you. Angie is now offering one on one mentoring classes for basic beginner photography. You will have the opportunity to spend one full day with Angie and will be able to ask her anything you wish. She will go over basic beginner photography as well as use of your camera. The mentor workshop will run from 9am to sunset. Included in your day will be a sample model shoot, intense instruction regarding photography in general, how to shoot in limited lighting, composition, etc. as well as a personal lunch with Angie. If you reside outside the state of Florida but would like the opportunity for Angie to come to you & teach you in your own environment, feel free to contact the studio about on location mentoring in your own state. Angie does travel and would love the opportunity to travel to your location for onsite mentoring & instruction. Additional fees do apply for instruction outside the state of Florida.

CLICK HERE to reserve your spot!

About the instructor:

Angie Seaman is a natural light photographer based out of Southwest, Florida. She services the Naples, Bonita Springs, Marco Island, Ft. Myers, Cape Coral, Sanibel Island and Captiva Island areas. Her hometown roots allow her visits back to central Indiana on a regular basis and therefore she shares her session time in Indianapolis and surrounding cities when in town. Angie's talents include sessions related to beach photography and urban environments. She specializes in fine art children's portraiture, family photography, engagement sessions, maternity, and commercial product lines. Her popularity as a photographer launched her into the world of teaching/instructing others on the basics of photography. Angie now offers online classes, weekend workshops, as well as in person one on one mentoring classes for those looking to learn more about their cameras and the world of photography in general. Angie resides in Naples, Florida full time with her husband and two children.