Dave & Jackie | Wedding

On March 27 2009 I had the honor of witnessing and photographing my best friend Natalie's father remarry. They married in a little chapel in Niagara Falls and it was very intimate and beautiful--the exact wedding I look for as a Small Wedding Specialist. While I am always nervous before a wedding, it always seems to be the couple's love that is tangible and calming. As I become more comfortable in myself as a person and as an artist, there is almost this newfound wonder for watching people's expressions and working to capture those (literally) once in a lifetime images. Here are a few images from Dave & Jackie's beautiful day:

Sophie

Good friends of ours, Lizz & Dustin, just recently celebrated the birth of their first child, a precious, sweet, gorgeous little girl named Sophie! They are incredible parents already and we couldn't be happier for them. I'm very much looking forward to playdates between our little girls as another excuse to hang out (though who needs an excuse! ha!). Seeing Lizz with her little girl is such a neat perspective for me as a new mom (again) myself. It's like re-exeperiencing those first few tiring, but amazing, weeks.

I had taken some maternity photos of them, photos of Sophie at 3 days old, then just the other day at one month. They are very private people and don't wish to have all the photos displayed--which I definitely respect :) But I love these photos so much, so with their permission, here a few from their shoots! I know you'll fall in love with their little girl as much as we have :) Thanks to you, Lizz & Dustin, for letting me share!





3 days old




1 month old










and my favorite--I love the way she's looking at me :) It was the last shot of the day!

Inspiration

I don't usually post too many personal blogs, but for the sake of trying something new, here I sit. So I thought I would share something I recently heard that has inspired me in my life--"The Sun never says to the Earth "You owe me"". That is a quote by the great poet Hafiz. Dr Wayne Dyer discusses it in alot of his teachings and in particular when discussing 'giving without expectations'. I've never been deep into religion but I am very spiritual. Without starting the debate on religious views, I myself believe that we are here to serve others and take care of each other. The more I read and study the books written by Dr Dyer, the more---inspired I become. It is opening my eyes and giving me new sight. I post this because it is changing who I am as a mother, wife, a photographer, and as a human being. My best friend Natalie always insists on paying me for shoots and photos I take of her little guy, and I used to wave her off (I've since learned that you do not argue with her! haha). She would always tell me that I have a talent, a gift, something that she, herself, can not do. She would have them done either by me, or pay someone else to do them--so she might as well pay me! :) My point is, as I awaken to this new start, I am embracing my "gift" and wanting to reach out and help as I can. So stay tuned for future postings about how I am giving back (just working out some details!), I am hoping to work closely with some charities who are close to my heart.

With that all being said, as I am completely inspired and feel ready to go, the excitement for the new season is nearly overwhelming! I can not wait to get out there and dive right into my new day.

Thank you to everyone that has supported me and been my cheerleaders when I needed it.

Samantha

Easter Photos & Magazines

Hi All! Easter is coming up fast (already!) so if you were thinking of having Easter photos done of your little ones, I am running a promotion until April 1 to make sure you get everything on time!

For $125, you receive your session, all the images on disc, 16 wallets, and (2) 5x7. Please contact me as soon as possible to book :)The nicer weather is also just around the corner :) So if you are thinking of doing family, engagement, or just because photos, please contact me so we can make sure to get a date that works for you :)

I have also updated my website (for those that haven't taken a peek in the last month or so!). I am now very happy with it and feel it is completely *me*. I welcome any feedback!

I also thought I would share my exciting news. I have it mentioned on my website (http://www.samanthapetrushak.com/) but I thought I would send a message out about the newest product I have--magazines.

These magazines are really great quality and they make a beautiful (and cheaper!) alternative to parent's albums or look really great on a coffee table filled with photos from your family session! There are tons of ideas and possibilities for these!

This is a portfolio I did up with images I've shot and information about sessions with me and who I am, but it gives you idea of what we can do with it. http://magcloud.com/browse/Magazine/9034

If this is something you may be interested in, ask for a quote when you book a session!

Samantha