Senior Welcome {TellaStory Photography}

by | Jul 31, 2019 | TSP Seniors | 0 comments

About the Senior Session

These sessions are really about celebrating your journey.  The next chapter is about to begin.  This is a great time to capture moments that illustrate who you are individually, right now. 

At TSP we like to keep things pretty laid back, we want you to feel as comfortable as you can be in front of the camera.  It’s okay if you are camera shy, We promise to keep this fun & enjoyable.  We will chat, hang out & laugh while we are snapping a few pictures.  Incognito. 

Senior
Senior
Senior
Senior

Frequently Asked Questions {FAQ's}

How to I Reserve My Session Date

Sessions are reserved with a $75 deposit
The balance is due prior to gallery / product delivery.

When Will My Photo's be Ready?

We strive to keep our delivery times consistent.  You can expect to receive a gallery link within 2 weeks of your session.  Sneak Peaks are posted within the week of the session.  Product Delivery is 3 weeks.

Should I bring Props?

It’s not required, if you love it, bring it!
If you are an active senior, bring your letter jacket, sports equipment, or anything associated with you & your activities.  If you like books, bring a few of your favorites, the list is truly endless!  Suggestions:  Bikes, Camera’s, magazines, books, maps {for travel}, records, musical instrument, cap & gown, football, volleyball, baseball & uniforms.  Whatever feels like you!  Want to keep it simple, no problem, just come as you.

What to Wear

No.  You don’t have to wear the same outfit the whole time.  Variety is the spice of life!
In fact ,your photo’s will look better if you have a change of colors or patterns.
Dresses and skirts look great on ladies;  Guys dressed in layers {weather permitting}  
Please bring 2-3 outfits to choose from, adding accessories can make for a quick switch.
NOTE:  if we are using a public space, changing may be a challenge.  Keep It Simple {KISS}

Can I have a friend?

Yes!  If you have a special person that has inspired you in your journey; let’s include them for a few shots

Date:

Let’s schedule 2 dates right away. 
Our first date is the primary date, if the weather doesn’t cooperate or last minute emergency pops up, we have round 2 already in the books. = no stress. 
Photo delivery is approx.. 2 weeks from your session date.  We do offer rush services for a small fee.

Location:

Do you have a favorite hang-out? 
Like to visit a certain outdoor / indoor space? 
We want your story to be meaningful to you.  What inspires you, your hobbies?  The best locations have great light and subtle details.

If you are undecided on where to go, we are more than happy to work with you in finding the right space.  

Session Cost:

Each session is fully customize-able,
Collections start at $175 with a variety of Ala’ carte options available.
When you are ready to start customizing your session; comment below.
We will send over a quote that allows you to build your photo experience to fit your budget.

Contact

10 + 5 =

Wedding Club Welcome ~ TellaStory Photography

by | Jul 25, 2019 | Wedding Planning | 0 comments

Hi there, we are so glad you found us;  watch out, we could talk weddings stuff for days, there is so much information to cover.  This on-line guide is the first step to answering the easy questions. (we hope) 

First of all, Thank you for your interest in our services, it is our goal is to provide you with a stress-free photography experience.  From our first meeting to the delivery of your final selections, we deliver top notch products & service with a smile.  Sounds cliche’ right?  We are the average Joe Schmoe’s who know their wedding shit – better?   All kidding & sarcasm aside; planning a wedding is stressful enough, as creatives, we see a need, fill a need & do our best to keep the photography aspect easy & straightforward.  Please take a moment to read through this guide, there is some good stuff.  If you still have questions – there is space at the end to drop a message and we can talk shop.  ENJOY

Behind the Lens
Meet the photographers

Let’s Get Social!

it’s hard to be anti-social in a social media world. 
by golly, I’m still trying….

Hello & Hiya

I am B – the lady “behind” TSP.  Some may see me as Mom to many;  playing a set behind the cello strings.  While I wear multiple hats everyday because I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up!?!  First thing to know about B {me}:   I’m a joker and lover of sarcasm.  I like to keep conversations light hearted & focus on the happy side of life. Don’t know what to say – no problem,  I’ve got a head full of “funny” movie lines +  dash of song & dance  I can provide a variety show on demand.  No, I am not an entertainer, more socially awkwardness perhaps a little quirky.

TellaStory Photography was my first artistic outlet.  Where I can view the world with my rose colored glasses on.  Images are created in love with my camera + lens & creative photography.
Documenting life is what I do best.  I find the little things that make us human, living an experiential life there is more than just a smile and look at the camera.  I see the beauty in movement, laughter & tears.  I see The connections between two people { a spark },  I watch the excitement in a seniors eye and feel it around the room.  These are the little things that I notice & watch for.  Capturing life as it unfolds like a storybook coming to life off the page.  It’s all those little things that make up the bigger things = important nuances & life worth living.  Memories fade.  A picture says 1000 words.   Need I say more? 

I cherish all the amazing years that have taught me about business, art & capturing candid photo’s.  I am humbled to think TSP – is so much more than photography it’s priceless to me. Welcome to the TSP family.

Thank you for supporting our small business.

 

Professional Photographer
Wedding Music

Post Covid Update. (Oct 2022)
Life is kinda funny – the loopty loo’s that one takes to get into the space we are in currently.  “The NOW”    So much has changed in a short amount of time.  Our family has grown with the addition of a new baby + new fur baby.  TSP has evolved & grown with the addition of a wedding team.  (Kim & Trent)  are a dime a dozen & my dream photography team.  They are my eyes, capturing all the goodness.  I can’t seem to pull myself away from the Saturday commitment & continue to shoot weddings 90% of the time.  (Chris no longer photographs weddings with me – someones gotta manage the homefront while mom plays)
Covid taught me the art of slowing down, I dived into myself to figure out what’s next?
I love all things healing (trained reiki master) & growing my understanding in holistic medicines.  Tuning forks are my next adventure – I am in love with learning new things, passions & interest – Need a bio-field tune up?
Musically – Chris & I go on “hot dates” when we play music for a small crowd – or intimate group.  Either way music is our heartbeat that keeps us connected.  Check us out:
 Rusty Cello + Yellow Chair 
I may say outload I’m a starving artist (I’m a sarcastic joker like that)  – when reality, my cup overflows with creativity as my core & love on my sleeve.  YOLO

Our Pre-Covid Life
Becky aka: shutterbug + Chris aka: Chris
We are a team.  Together we are responsible for 5 kids, 2 cats and 1 giant puppy.
{Uftda, it’s exhausting some days}
Chris has a day job in IT.  Having computer troubles?  I know the perfect IT technician, He keeps our computers running seamlessly.  My full time job is photography followed by Mom-ing is that a word?  Plus various jobs that I acquire out of boredom or the famous “I can do it motto.”  Mom-tre-Prenuer style, yup.  I’m a go-getter.  Somehow all of this leads into a very beautifully hectic life.  I’m fortunate to have awesome clients that trust me with their long-term memories & thankful beyond measure that I get to do what I love & still love what I’m doing after all these years.

When Chris & I are not behind the lens, you may find us camping in remote places & dreaming of our next “escape”.  We love a good hike, or willing to settle for an evening walk around the block.  We prefer to take the long route home {back roads}  more often than not; finding some peace in the chaos.
During the winter months we can be found on the ski hill & staying warm in our living room playing music together. (Modern Day Partridge Family)  Music is the heartbeat of our family & our catch phrase:  “Get lost and find yourself.”

That’s us in a nutshell.  Pretty easy going, because life is too damn complicated for stress & worries. ~Hakunna Matata

Frequently Asked Questions
Q & A

Q: What Makes your work different from other photographers work?

A:  We are not your typical photographer.  We don’t just take pictures – we are there to help keep the day running smoothly (think of it as putting your wedding day on auto-pilot when you hire us)  With 15+ years experience & over 300 weddings photographed, we have seen it all & still find new “things” at each wedding.   There are times during the day where we try to keep certain settings relaxed; while we blend into the background capturing simple moments.   We are quick to spot moments & can create a scene on command.  Sometimes we are a part of something more intimate; other times there is a lot happening, non-stop action.   Every wedding is different & we adapt to accommodate each situation.  I think you “get the picture”

To capture those “pretty” pictures we use natural lighting as much as possible.  {I’ll admit, my super hero power is bending light}   We do have flash that can be set up, as needed.  We strive to keep the day fun & candid in front of the camera, that is when the best photo’s come about – un-posed & relaxed.  ~CHEERS to your new beginning!

Q&A

Q: How many photographers will be there at our wedding?

A:  Most TSP Wedding Collections start with 1 photographer.   This allows us to build your package.  We have a team of trained 2nd photographers available to fill dates.  Once a wedding is confirmed,we finalize your photographer team.  

*PRO TIP: A second photographer brings a 2nd perspective from the day. 
For wedding parties larger than 12, we encourage a second shooter.  

Q&A

Q: Will we get the print release to our photo's after our wedding?

A:  Yes.  Upon receiving your final flash-drive box + prints, you will receive a digital print release.

Q: How do we reserve our wedding date?

A:  A deposit of $800.00 secures your wedding date.  Once a date is reserved we will not book any other sessions / events. 

Once the DATE is saved & misc. items to mention:  
* Deposit will be applied to the open balance. 
* Ala’ carte ordering can be placed anytime   
* Packages may be modified anytime
* TSP offers Flexible Payment Plans,
* Final balance due 30 days prior to the event.
* Deposit is non-refundable // if canceled it may be turned into an open credit for future work (pending contracts) 

Q: Do we get every image taken from the wedding?

A:  trust me when I say, you do not want every image we take.  We shoot high {approx} 3,000 images are taken during the day.  We cull that down to 1/2 that number.  We spend hours editing and ensuring you receive a variety of images, from black & white to artistic shots; there will be plenty of images to tell your story.
On average we deliver 100 images per every hour we are on-site.  7 hours of coverage = 700 images.  Add a few more if there is a 2nd shoot.  ‘you get the picture’ 

Q: Will we get featured in a magazine or blog?

A:  Many of my weddings do get featured one way or another, it is not guaranteed.  Most publishers are interested in specific decor & designs.  If you want to get featured, let’s talk – I’ll help you prior to the wedding with details that will get the publishers attention!

Q&A

Q: How long does it take to get our photos after the wedding

A: We like to run a tight ship.  Average lead times for wedding images: 
On-line highlight gallery is available 2 weeks after the wedding date.  These sneak peak images are a great way to see how the edits are coming along.  The remaining gallery + flash drive is delivered roughly 8-10 weeks after the wedding date. 

Q&A

Q: Do we have to order prints through you?

A: My obvious answer: yes, print through TSP & we will provide an image guarantee.  It is not required to print through TSP.  but I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t educate my clients in the difference & quality.  It’s huge, and you get what you pay for in your prints.  TSP is not responsible for color variations when choosing independent print companies.

Building Your Wedding Package

Decide how much of your day you would like documented.    How do you want to relive your wedding each time you view the photo’s? Do you prefer a story book format?   Do you prefer viewing in digital format?  Are you interested in hanging a large Print after the wedding?  The list of questions go on and on…… let’s start with the basics.  TSP weddings are delivered in a wood keepsake box + flash drive + prints + highlight gallery the rest is up to you to decide what fits your style & budget.

Kuddos for making it this far!  You’re almost done.

Are you one step closer to saying “YES” to your photographer ?

Let’s have coffee/ drinks/ dinner .  We can’t meet just yet, but we can still visit.  This is a no pressure consultation – where you walk me through the vision of your day while I help you create a tentative timeline.   We may ask a few more questions and come up with the best coverage while keeping your budget in mind.

Drop us a message with a few dates that work best
Hope to Chat Soon!! ~B

Contact

13 + 7 =

TSP Senior Mini Session Event

by | Jun 28, 2019 | TSP Products | 0 comments

TSP Senior Mini Session Event 
Class of 2021

It’s about celebrating your journey!  This is your chance to capture moments that illustrate who you are, now.


     Location  :   Session Dates
Croix View Farms:  7/28  :  8/2  :  8/11 
Schillberg Park:  7/18 :  7/19  :  8/16
Cascade Falls: 7/18  :  7/19  :  8/16
Mill Pond Park: 7/18  :  7/19  :  8/11  :  8/16

Mini Session Includes:
20 minute session + 3 Digital Images= $75
Reserve your date with a deposit.

 

Learn more about our full sessions
<< HERE>>

Destination Imagination Team Boogie Knights

by | Apr 24, 2019 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

Over the past few months, I tucked away the photography equipment for short winter break & took on a hobby of coaching a Destination Imagination team. This program &  these kids have taken us on the ride of a lifetime.   Meet Destination Imagination Team Boogie Knights;  Our story:  

Destination Imagination is a team-based challenge geared for students in the 3-12 grade.  “DI” = destination imagination focuses on leveraging outside the box, creative and critical thinking to solve unique challenges as a team. Each Challenge in this program encourages kids to discover their own talents and abilities, and learn new skills.  Our team Boogie Knights has been practicing for 4 months to pull together our 8 minute performance, build props that help tell our story.  This has been a fun rewarding process to make it this far! 

Team members include:  Claire Johnson, Ruby Demulling, Carter Stueve, Owen Cherney, Reegan Kulzer, Jasmyn Walstead & Ava Schueller {not pictured}.

Our team decided on the Scientific Challenge. 
Medical Mystery. 
The challenge instructions:

* research the human body and medical conditions that affect the human body

* create and present a story about a medical mystery that affects a human character

*design and build a representation that shows the medical mystery and at least one symptom

*present an action or scene that is shown from two or more perspectives at the same time

*create and present two team choice elements that show off the teams interest, skills, areas of strengths and talents

Video currently displays only on cell phones & tablets.  If you are viewing on a desktop, we have included an audio clip of our Boogie Knights Commercial or you may {click the 3 dots on the right}  to download the commercial ~Team Boogies

We are looking for Sponsors to help off-set the cost for the team to travel to Global Finals 2019.  Current estimated cost for team Boogie Knights to attend Destination Imagination Global Finals:   $10,504.00  this includes Travel, Hotel, Food and Entrance Fee for the team to perform in this event.

Donations can be made at Hiawatha National Bank {Osceola Location}
C/O Team Boogie Knights *  PO Box 729 * Osceola WI 54020

**Sponsors donating $1000 or more will receive special signage in our Prop Display Case at Global Finals.  With over 8,000+ people visiting daily May 21-25

**Sponsors donating $250 will receive business head shots with TellaStory Photography (*inquire for details)

Grooving our Way to Globals   

~~  Team Boogie Knights 2019  ~~ 

Thank you for your support!

Ask Team Boogies Questions - or Wish us Luck on our Journey!

2 + 3 =

Guide to a Smooth Wedding Day

by | Feb 7, 2019 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

 

 

Guide to a smooth Wedding Day

Are you planning your wedding?  We have gathering data and collecting a few fun facts Over the past 10+  years.   TSP has earned bragging rights having witnessed / photographed over 125+ weddings.  WOWSA!   That’s a lot of kissing!   All funniness aside,  we have watched epic wedding fails and have seen lots of magic created during the happily ever after event.  Every wedding is so different, from the vibe to the decor.  It all comes down to the planning that happens in the months leading up to the main event. 

How prepared are you?, Or, unprepared you are.

I’d love to share a little “wisdom” or insights if you can call it that – tips from a self proclaimed wedding expert. 

Part One of this 2 part series, In no particular order: Things to consider as you’re wedding planning.

 

Encourage your guest to unplug:

Take your wedding unplugged.  We understand that your family & friends want to capture part of your day;  It’s heartbreaking to look from the back the church at the sea of i-tographers trying to snag a good photograph.  You guest are so focused on getting a good shot that they miss out on the moment, the expressions of the couple, listening intently to the vows being spoken.   From my point of view it’s difficult to see past the oversized ipads and glowing cell phone screens.  See where I’m going here?

We love it when couples take it to the next level ~ unplugged wedding.  Yes, it’s a thing.  Add a cute sign to your decor asking your guests to kindly leave their phones and cameras in their pockets.  Encourage them to enjoy the wedding with their eyes, not through electronic screens.  

 

Go through your vows ahead of time:

Go through your wedding vows, like really go through them with your fiance.  Talk about what they mean to you.  If it’s canned material that your officiate brings to you, please know you have every right to tweak this, or better yet, write your own vows.  Too often I listen as the bride and groom repeat after the minister, only to get jumbled up on the wording because they don’t know what it all means.  The wedding is about the covenant being made between the two of you – make it meaningful!

Be Aware of alcohol policies at your venue:

I’m not opposed to couples and wedding parties enjoying a cocktail or a few beers before the ceremony.  Please consider the amount and the appropriateness of the drink.  A morning mimosa, a toast with a glass of wine, a mixed drink during dancing — all great things if  your convictions allow.  But if the venue doesn’t allow drinking or you have not purchased insurance to consume, or hired a bartender, respect the venues space and don’t sneak it in.  It’s disrespectful, and you run the risk of getting fined and your drinks taken away.  If you are in the bridal party, it’s not worth potentially ruining the wedding day.

Planning meal times into your day:

Carve out time in your day to eat properly.  Remember your body needs enough fuel to last all day long.  For summer wedding especially, please also drink enough water to stay hydrated.

Consider the “first look”:

The precious first look – possibly my favorite part of the day!  It’s more common now, than what was practiced even just 10 years ago.  I will always respect my couples and their wishes no matter which way they choose to schedule their day.  But if you break it down and truly think about it, it can free up a lot of time to stage the first look.   Bonus, you will get all the emotionally filled images taken pre-ceremony.  For this part of the day, It’s always just the couple and the photographer (lurking in a corner)- nobody wants a huge fan club watching as they share their intimate, emotionally charged moments.  The first look is a great way to release any pre-ceremony emotions.  It also sets the stage to experience a whole new set of emotions as you begin the walk down the aisle.  Not to mention– we can set up the photography timeline  so that the bulk of the formal photo’s for the wedding party & family are done before the ceremony.  Leaving you more time to PARTY!

First Dance:

Most couples are on a “budget” and can only pay for XX time for wedding day coverage.  Thus, the first dance may not be covered by the photographer.  Think outside the box.  There is always a way to get events covered, it may take some fine tuning to the timeline.   At the start of the reception, the DJ announces the couple for the Grande march.  As the Newlyweds enter the reception hall, they can go directly into their first dance.  Timeline problem solved.  There is no need to wait for the first dance to happen after dinner.  Of course you may need to still include the father daughter dance and mother son dance, this can occur after dinner or after the grand march.  Depends on how you wish to stage this part of the evening.  Talk to your DJ & your photographer, they may be able to assist you in getting the most out of your coverage.

Buy multiple lighters for sparkler send off:

If you plan to have a fancy send off with sparklers; since rice is no longer  encouraged due to choking hazards to birds.  Please think it through and talk with your planner about how to best arrange this send off.  If you have only one lighter, and you light and pass it down, the sparklers at the beginning of the line will clearly be snuffed out by the time the last ones in line are waiting to get lit.  You’d think this is common sense- I can assure you, it’s not.  This type of send off takes careful planning.  The secret to lighting sparklers is to come together in the center and light all at once from a large candle, or make several groups of lighters.  Also, be sure to buy the LONG sparklers or the Wedding Day sparklers.  Be safe.  Fire/kids/alcohol is not always a good combination.

About the Author
Rebecca is a Midwest based photographer; with Award winning images in Wedding Photography. She has 10+ years experience, hundreds of memories from each event, along with a few published articles in the photography field. She enjoys sharing insights with clients and fellow blog followers. As a photographer, her use of natural light and technical ease allows her to create memorable, unique and beautiful photo’s for all her clients.

TellaStory Photography © All Rights Reserved
Located in the Midwest, Scenic Saint Croix River Valley. 
Servicing Local Communities in Hudson, WI, Eau Claire, WI, Duluth MN Saint Paul, MN & Minneapolis, MN 
Available for Travel & Destination Shoots.

715*497*3588     shutterbug@tellastoryphotography.com