Images by Nicki

Drum Roll, Please!

2011-01-26T10:11:00.000-08:00

I am very excited to announce that the new blogsite is live! From now on, please visit http://imagesbynicki.com/ for the latest blogs and photos!

A Little Christmas {South Jersey Lifestyle Photographer}

2010-12-23T09:36:00.000-08:00

Well, here we are Christmas 2010! Where did time go?? It's been quite an unusual year. Lots of changes happened here at the Albertson Casa. But we are still blessed this year the same as all our other amazing years past. It's not about what we lost, but what we still have to enjoy!
My new project inspired by a dear friend is called "finding gratitude everyday". There truly is so much to be grateful for. And sometimes it gets hard to see, but I will plow through that smoke and dust until I find something that I am grateful for every single day. I will start with my family. Love is better than any gift ever! I'd always choose love over a present! No gifts necessary! We are having a merry LITTLE Christmas here this year, but it still feels like any other year filled with love. This Christmas, I wish everyone could look past the bags and boxes and wrapping paper to see, REALLY SEE, the people you are giving those gifts to. Tell them how lucky you are to have them and thank them for all they have given you. That's the kind of Christmas we are having. I wish everyone a merry little Christmas of their own!!

Percentages {South Jersey Lifestyle Photographer}

2010-12-16T06:37:00.000-08:00

These kids are 100% cute.
Our holiday session orders are 95% done.
The new blog-site is 80% complete.
My Christmas shopping is 0% started! :)
I have to get shopping!! Have a wonderful day!!!!

www.imagesbynicki.com

For Valarie and Tom {South Jersey Photographer}

2010-12-06T12:27:00.000-08:00

I met Valarie 13 Years ago. Twelve years ago she became my "cousin-in-law". From day one, she and her family were dear friends of mine. I was honored to be a guest.... YES, a guest, at her wedding this past weekend. (I'm so used to being the paid photographer that it took some time to adjust to the pleasure of being a guest and not being at work) I brought along my camera to see what I could find "from my seat" ;) I am so crazy about photos, it was hard for me to stay put!! Here are a few little finds from the day. I tried to not use any strobe at all, I tried to stay in my seat and I tried to stay out of my fellow photog's way :) Congratulations, Valarie and Tom!!
Valarie, I have never seen you so happy! I remember you and I at all those home demonstrations over the years, buying baskets and Tupperware thinking, how exciting it would be for you to get married and use all your great stuff! Well, your day has come and you deserve all the happiness in the world!! Hold onto every second!!

Light. {South Jersey Lifestyle Photographer}

2010-11-07T16:59:00.000-08:00

Well, today was the dreaded first day of daylight savings time. I knew it wasn't going to go over well with me. I love light. I look at how it moves and changes all day long. This day's light left us at 4:45. I felt like there was still so much of the day left to enjoy, but seeing the darkness made me tired and lazy. And from what I read on facebook, I'm not the only one. I understand there is some purpose served in making us all go crazy changing our clocks..... But I just can't say I'm a big fan of it. There is a half hour window of time in which the light streams right through my front door at such an incredible angle, it just stops you in your tracks! I could stand there and watch how it rims all my things in a golden glow. The other day my daughter was watching TV as that beautiful light danced through the door.... I had to take a shot or two so I can show you how amazing that light is. http://www.imagesbynicki.com/

Miss Maggie {SouthJersey Lifestyle Photographer}

2010-10-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

I'd like you to meet Miss Maggie who came all the way from Georgia to see me!! It was during Maggie's photo session that I noticed the light changing from the late summer glow that lingers to the golden fall light that fades away all too quickly. Maggie was a "wiggle worm", as her mommy described her! But we finally got her to sleep and she looked like a doll! Maggie's grandparents came to help and be part of our session. Here are a few shots from our day :)

My holiday season has been in full swing. I'm never surprised anymore by the stores who put up their holiday decor so early in the season. It's normal for me to shoot a Christmas photo in September or earlier. Space is now very limited for holiday sessions so book today!

The new blog-site is still in the works!! I have so many great sessions to share! I'm working out the details while working on holiday photos. I hope to be blogging there very soon. It's going to be so nice to have one place to keep all our stories!

A Father's Love {South Jersey Lifestyle Photographer}

2010-10-20T11:04:00.000-07:00

If you ask this dad what he loves most in the world, he will undoubtedly always answer, "MY BOYS!" I spent an incredible day with these three handsome men! The light was wonderful as we walked along this quiet trail in the woods. I love this time of year! I'm going to miss the glow of the leaves when fall fades into winter. I have enjoyed this outdoor shooting season more than any other year! I'm so blessed to be able to work with the most amazing people.

We are working on a new "web-blog-site" (yes, I made that word up) so I can share my latest projects with you as I work on them. I am completely excited and inspired because of it! It's been a lot of work, but we are almost ready to share it!! The countdown begins.....

Keep checking in at http://www.imagesbynicki.com/ to see the big surprise coming soon! Many thanks to my web designer for putting up with all my crazy ideas and thoughts. I am grateful.

Mayberry {South Jersey Lifestyle Photographer}

2010-09-30T08:14:00.001-07:00

I'm sitting here writing at a diner in Mayberry. Well, it's not really Mayberry but it sure feels like it to me!! I just love Berlin New Jersey! It may not look like much but I feel charmed to live here. The community spirit runs high, our school is just wonderful, and we have the most FUN Fourth of July parade ever! We even have the classic water tower that stands there like a giant protector silhouetted in our beautiful sunsets. I thank my lucky STARS every day to live in such a lovely place.

Welcome to the Berlin backyard of Miss L and her little bro N. They LOVE the summertime in their backyard...... hanging by the pool and napping in the hammock..... Such cutie pies!!! These are from a couple weeks back but I just had to share these great end of summer shots with you!! I have lots of new sessions and stories to tell. Wedding season has kept me very busy, but I'm working on lots of new blogs to share soon!!

Visit imagesbynicki.com to book a lifestyle session today.

Sending Summer out in Style! {South Jersey Children's Photographer}

2010-09-03T17:14:00.000-07:00

Look at these two sassy gals!! I have been photographing them since the little one was just a baby! This was our first time "on location" and it couldn't have been more FUN! First we played at the park, then found a great colorful building to make funny faces and "model for the camera". "G" is turning 6 and "A" is going to be 3! Happy Birthday, girls!!! I get to photograph them every year at Christmas and their birthdays. They are growing up so big and turning into such cute little ladies!

Good luck to all the kiddies starting back to school this week! It was a great summer, and now is the perfect weather for outdoor sessions!! Call today to book a back to school session! I know it's a busy month, but don't let the brilliant weather pass us by! http://www.imagesbynicki.com/

You Make Me Smile {South Jersey Photographer}

2010-08-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

With only a couple of weeks left until school starts, I am looking at my "summer to do list" and thinking, ugh I didn't do half of what I hoped to do this season. So here I am cramming all my ideas and projects into a few days..... I remember telling my daughter that we had to do her summer photos way back when it was still spring. But the warm days just floated by and suddenly, I have a soon to be 6th grader with no summer photos! So we took a ride to Main Street in Medford, NJ for a few quick photos for her scrapbook. She makes me smile! She's such a ham... when she wants to be. :)

This fall, she's starting middle school. I just can't believe it! She tells me there are "dances" this year. (dresses to buy!!!! OH MY!) I am excited for her, but kind of sad that time is flying by so fast. She's always been my baby girl, but look at her now!!! Yes, she's still my baby!

http://www.imagesbynicki.com/

A Visit From Heaven {South Jersey Children's Photographer}

2010-08-17T08:45:00.000-07:00

Meet D, N, and Mason! Yes, there are 3 kids in these photos..... Mason is there in spirit. He went to Heaven when he was just a little guy, and his family knows he will always be with them in so many ways. The balloons and flowers are for him. We decided to let the balloons go at the end of our session in honor of Mason. And after we did, this amazing butterfly came to the garden to see us. Incredible! I LOVE these kids!!! I wish I could share every shot!!

This session is very special to me. It's a wonderful feeling to be able to capture a moment that a family will have forever. It's a story and a memory. www.imagesbynicki.com Let's dream something together.

Cabbage Patch Kids! {South Jersey Children's Photographer}

2010-08-06T08:16:00.000-07:00

Where do babies come from??? The cabbage patch of course!!! How great is it that there was a wonderful farm only minutes from this incredible family's house!! Thank you, Stella's Farm for letting us take over a shady grove and make these photos! :) We spent the day putting the twins N and N to sleep while big sister B explored the farm. What fun! Baby boy N loved sleeping outside in the shade of the trees, while baby girl N loved being without her diaper.... (yikes) Big sister B was sooo good and such a cutie, oh my!!! A big thanks to their mommy and mom-mom for all their help with this session!!

http://www.imagesbynicki.com/

Summer Girls! {South Jersey Family Photographer}

2010-07-30T11:53:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a GREAT family!! When the mother of these 5 adorable girls called me she said, "we are beach people." Well, that's no joke!!! Look how they just belong there in the sun and sand!! I had such fun with these girls! Meet K, P, T, M and B!!!!! My favorite shot of this summer so far is the colorful parasol line up looking out at that blue green ocean! What a blessing it must be to have 5 amazing girls!

A Midsummer Wish {South Jersey Family Photographer}

2010-07-28T11:27:00.000-07:00

Well, I can't believe it's the end of July already. I'm making a wish for summer to never end! :) I know some of you are tired of the heat (and the humidity does kinda stink) but I really don't want to see summer end!! The light has been wonderful and the sunshine makes me happy! I'm so grateful for the quiet mornings and pretty skies. I could just spin on a tire swing and dream.

I still have beach photos to share, and I sure could use a day at the beach again!!!! Meet the wonderfully FUN "N" family and HOT momma "S". Splashing in ocean water wearing your favorite dress is exactly what we all need to do!!! Who wants to come? We'll get pizza and ride a roller coaster!

Ahhhh Summer! {South Jersey Photographer}

2010-07-24T06:02:00.000-07:00

I spent a short time (way too short) in Ocean City New Jersey eating Mack and Manco's pizza and Johnson's caramel pop corn. I walked the boardwalk and ROASTED on the beach during record heat! I spent time with my daughter, my niece and nephews! It was wonderful!!

While I was there I met FANTASTIC families who LOVE hanging out at the beach! Here's a peak at three boys who could steal any girl's heart. I'm certain that the littlest one will be track star! :) I never saw anyone run so fast!! Enjoy!

Baby Boy "B" {South Jersey Baby Photographer}

2010-07-01T12:51:00.000-07:00

He's only 9 days old in these shots!!! What a sweet little baby boy! He barely made a peep...... but he tried to stay awake so he wouldn't miss a thing while I was there! ;)

My daughter is at the age (11) where babies are just the most amazing things. She got to hold him and she did it with such care that I was so impressed by her maternal instincts. He smiled so much in her arms! (I didn't tell her it was probably gas) Shhhhhhh! :)

If you are pregnant, visit me at http://www.imagesbynicki.com/ and e-mail me to put your due date on my calendar! Babies less than two weeks old are smooshy and sleepy...... perfect for the most creative newborn shots! Send a one of a kind birth announcement, and have those first precious days of life captured forever.

Summer Fun! {South Jersey High School Senior Photographer}

2010-06-25T12:31:00.000-07:00

When "D" e-mailed me about shooting her senior photos, she knew she wanted it to be fun. Right away I started dreaming up the most fun locations I could think of to take her to. I knew we'd have to wait for Mother Nature to give us a decent day, and sure enough, we lucked out! What an adventure we had! We had lots of laughs and interesting moments throughout the evening. A surprise visit from a lady bug, Tele-tubbie costumed skater dudes, and cookie the dog all took part in the story. Wish you all could have been there! I am so excited about these photos! Great job, D!!!!! Thank you again to Sharon my assistant and Kristie our incredible make up artist!!!

Contact me for more information on booking a session!

http://www.imagesbynicki.com/

Chatty Kaitlyn! {South Jersey Children's Photographer}

2010-06-16T06:16:00.000-07:00

Meet Kaitlyn. If you think she's cute, you should have heard her voice!! I was amazed...... I just wanted to record it!! ADORABLE!! It's her first birthday, and we were going to do some fun outside shots, but it rained that day. So, plan B was put into action: studio shots. It all worked out...... just perfect! Happy first birthday, little K!!!!

Little Miss "A" And Our Very HOT Day! {South Jersey Family Photographer}

2010-06-14T08:52:00.000-07:00

It had to be one hundred degrees the day little miss A and her family came to see me. It was a great day over Memorial Day weekend. And despite the fact that we were all close to actually melting, we were still able to make some fun shots!!! We headed out to my favorite park, the light was steamy but pretty and we made some great summer images together! Here are a few from the HOTTEST day ever!! LOL.... This was a difficult choice, there are so many I want to share!!! Happy Summer! ;)

What's In A Name? {South Jersey Baby Photographer}

2010-06-07T15:49:00.000-07:00

I tend to not use the full names of my models on the blog for privacy reasons, but I am always so disappointed because my models' names are always PERFECT for them!!!! Today's blog is about a little princess named Avery, and yes I get to use her name!!! You see, her castle was made just for her, and you'll read her beautiful name in one of my favorite shots. So I thought this time you could see how perfect her name is for her and how much she looks like a sweet, sweet Avery!

This vintage baby carriage is on loan from someone special. I think it was just right for baby Avery! She was my first baby this year to go outside and sleep in the sun for a few moments! Aaaaaaa, summer! Enjoy!

Forever Young (South Jersey High School Senior Photographer)

2010-05-29T17:39:00.000-07:00

I believe every young person has a LIGHT inside. It's important to let it SHINE. I let them show ME who THEY are and WE tell the world together with photographs; photos that will mean as much to them TODAY as they will 20 YEARS from now. Senior year of high school is memorable in so many ways. Capture IT.

C and I had a BLAST shooting her senior photos! She was AWESOME!!! This was her first photo session ever! Isn't she great!! A big thank you to Sharon, our FANTASTIC assistant. Great job, girls!!!

For the month of June, all location senior session fees will be given a 20% discount. (rain dates moved to July will be given the discounted rates.) Call for details and availablility.

Sign of the Times (South Jersey Photographer)

2010-05-08T13:13:00.000-07:00

This old house amazes me. I think it's going to be knocked down soon and that will make me truly sad. But time left this old house alone long enough for me to give it one more story to tell.

Meet my niece Hailey. She was perfect.

http://www.imagesbynicki.com/

Sweet Sweet Baby V

2010-05-04T18:25:00.000-07:00

A little help from her daddy! LOL!

I just can't believe she's new at this modeling thing! ;) Look at her! She's a pro! Sweet baby V is only 3 months old. Isn't she precious! It's such an honor to be the photographer to make a baby's very first professional photograph. I hope her mommy and daddy love these!

Charming. Yes, as in Prince. (South Jersey Baby Photographer)

2010-05-02T12:17:00.000-07:00

What a BIG smile for less than two weeks old!!!!

Big sister, Chyna the pooch, gave her new baby brother a BIG WET KISS hello!

He is brand new, he is soft, he is sweet and he is so charming! He didn't mind posing for me in all sorts of SMOOSHY ways. The only thing he did not like was being in the BUFF! :)

Congratulations to N and D!! He is sooooo awesome!!!

Tell Your Story With A Custom Photo Book

2010-04-13T08:17:00.000-07:00

My new photo books have arrived! They are incredible! The 10x10 size is just perfect! It looks fabulous on a coffee table and fits wonderfully on your bookshelf. You can choose a custom photo cover, which happens to be my favorite thing about these books, or you can have a leather or cloth cover as well. I can still design for the old 8x8 and 5x5 size books with my new templates. Just wanted to give you a peek.... I love books of every kind, but a book that tells YOUR story, well that is just marvelous!

Mother's Day Gift Idea / South Jersey Photographer

2010-04-09T17:47:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite little things! It is a handmade sterling silver charm with my daughter's photograph in brilliant color and detail right on the charm. It's so contemporary and fun! I never fail to get compliments all day long when I wear it! It is one of my favorite ways to present my photographs. It makes an amazing gift for any mother who loves to show off her family! Surprise your wife or mom with a handmade heirloom piece from Nicole Albertson Photography. There are limited dates still available so don't wait! We can also use one of your favorite shots from our previous sessions as well!

Visit www.imagesbynicki.com for contact information.

Let's go for a ride! /South Jersey Children's Photographer

2010-04-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

We took out the vintage tricycle and hit the country road! Get used to this little face because I cannot stop photographing her! She was amazing, the day was amazing, and the light, oh the light!! I am smitten with spring! I had a hard time only picking a few shots from this session. I think they are classic! Enjoy!

Talkin' about MY GIRL! /South Jersey Photographer

2010-04-05T09:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, here she is, my daughter! She's only 11 although I know she looks much older! It's all those years of making her model for me. She's such a natural! She has been my "test model" since the day she was born. We shot these on sunny Easter Sunday on my favorite little "country road". Five minutes after we walked into the house, she was back in her shorts and tank top, playing ball with my nephew. She's all girl, but she's tough as nails too! I am so lucky and blessed to have such an amazing kid! I love you, little A!

Metal is a Girl's Best Friend (South Jersey Photographer)

2010-04-01T19:28:00.000-07:00

My second artistic love after photography is metalsmithing. In college, I would go from the darkroom to the metal shop. There's magic about stopping time in photos, but there's really SOMETHING about creating artwork out of metal with your bare hands! My good friend Anita has been working in metal while I have been shooting away, and her visit made me miss METAL so much!

I was "shopping" as I photographed her work since my jeweler's bench has 3 inches of dust on it, my silver has tarnished and I almost forgot how scary it is to have long hair and a lit torch in your hand! ;) She has inspired me to dig out my old raw materials and make something amazing. Perhaps you'll get to see my metal work on this blog one day but for now, check out Anita's work here: http://www.anitadipietro.com/ She will also work with you on custom designs, so if you are dreaming about a............ moon pendant with a diamond in the center as I am, talk to Anita, she can make it happen!

Family Traditions

2010-03-30T06:02:00.000-07:00

There's never a dull moment when we have a family get together. Art and music makes for an eclectic bunch, so when we have an event you best believe you'll be laughing the whole time. Concerts, movies, photo shoots, "Wii rock band nights" vacations at the beach, and of course our annual trip to South Street, Philadelphia PA for my dad's birthday. Our first stop, Jim's steaks! There's no doubt in my mind that they are the best Philly cheese steaks in our city, despite the Pat's/Geno's feud that makes Philadelphia famous. We avoid all that and go right to 4th and South, the corner where they fry so much meat, you can smell it all up and down the street. OK not so glamorous sounding but hey, it's tradition! After the "meat feast" we are off for some drinks. South Street just has a "feel" to it. It draws artists, musicians, and plenty of oddities. We enjoy a little people watching and take some photos. This year was unseasonably warm and I enjoyed sitting outside the Copa Banana watching the city go by! It is our tradition, after a long winter, we love to remind ourselves that summer is coming and good times are about to be had. We celebrate Dad's birthday and put another fun day in the memory books!

Here are some shots of the famous mosaic walls you'll find around the city. Such a colorful place, sometimes I think I forget to take it all in and enjoy what I have right at my fingertips. I seem to always be looking to "get out this place" but maybe once the gray skies clear, it's not so bad after all.

A and A in Wonderland! (South Jersey children's photographer)

2010-03-26T18:38:00.001-07:00

Look at those eye lashes!!!

It's just beginning to feel like spring here. We've had some gorgeous days.... and some chilly days. There are a few flowers popped up and the grass is getting greener! :) The world is starting to become my studio again!!

I have always had a love for Alice in Wonderland (and Tim Burton) so I couldn't wait to see the new Alice in Wonderland movie with my daughter! I was delighted by the 3D movie that reminded me of my favorite story, and the place I used to pretend I lived as a child. I left the theater so inspired that I knew my next shoot would have that "wonderland" feel. I felt I had to bring color into the landscape as I believe the leaves are still waiting for a little bit more warmth before they bloom. So I built a ribbon curtain and tossed it up into a tree. I put two adorable kids in the scene and this is my early spring wonderland!

There are still spring sessions open so call today! I know mother nature might be moody but we will work around her and make a great storybook page for your family!

Sweet Baby S (South Jersey Baby Photographer)

2010-03-23T14:17:00.000-07:00

She was so sweet, I missed her when she left. I am sooo done having babies, but when you get to be so close to an amazing little munchkin like this, you just miss those days! Soft hair, smooth skin and big brilliant eyes, babies are so special! She is 6 months old and I'd say we did a pretty awesome job of capturing this incredible time in the first year of baby S's life! (her mommy was a fabulous assistant!) What a great time for photographs! Oh, the things babies do at 6 months!! :) There were way too many good ones to even chose for this blog! Here's a sneak peak at "Sweet Baby S".

He Just Can't Get Any Cuter! (South Jersey Photographer)

2010-03-05T11:51:00.000-08:00

It's been busy here with a wedding last weekend and my daughter's first theatrical performance this week! I just wanted to share baby "I" with you because well, he just can't get any cuter! He was such a good boy, so easy to work with! Love those silly faces!! He was fascinated by a tiny football I have here in the studio. I am guessing he's going to start playing ball as soon as he can run!

Spring is near, I can feel it, I can see it. I just can't wait! Call today to plan your warm weather session. Blooming trees and flowers will be here soon! After this winter we have had, I might be happy to sneeze a little (from pollen), endure a mosquito bite or two (well maybe not) and feel a little heat instead of always feeling chilly!

Vintage Love (South Jersey Photographer)

2010-02-25T10:24:00.001-08:00

How many times have you told yourself that you need to "clean house" and throw away the clutter in your life so you can breathe easy? I know, I know, I have been kicking myself to get with it and start cleaning out this house since we moved in eleven years ago! BUT after my wonderful session with the famous "serious S A", I realized that I may not want to be so quick to throw away everything. The awesome little puckery red jacket S A is wearing is HER MOM'S from when she was a "serious" little kid! Serious S A's grandmother had it saved for more than 30 years for a moment like this! (Sorry to S A's mommy for spilling your age LOL) I think it's not only so cool that S A could wear her mom's jacket in this photo, but it's too cool to be so vintage! I am so excited about the vintage look!

Happy First Birthday, Baby Blue Eyes!

2010-02-23T15:51:00.000-08:00

Last year, Tessa was born 7 weeks earlier than expected. It's hard to believe it's been a year already and look who's doing simply amazing! Here are a few shots from her first birthday session. Isn't she great!!? I call her baby blue eyes, and she sure knows she's number one!!

Groundhog Day! (South Jersey Photographer)

2010-01-30T12:03:00.001-08:00

Dear Mr. Punxsutawney Phil,

I would like to let you know that shadows are good. Please do not be afraid of your shadow this February because I have some exciting plans for spring and I really don't want 6 more weeks of winter! LOL! Seriously, though, if I could convince that little bugger to bring on spring faster, I sure would! I have been inspired by two amazing Texas photographers and their use of the colorful, unique places around them. I started driving differently around my town, looking at the incredible backgrounds I never knew were there. With a new vision in my brain, I am seeing the potential of so many new places that are a few minutes' drive from here. But today is one of those days where your jeans freeze instantly on your legs and moving actually hurts! You know what I mean if you've stepped outside lately around these parts of the country. Gray skies, flurries, bitter cold. Not fun. It's frustrating to be so ready to shoot but you can't! So I'm begging Punxsutawney Phil to embrace his shadow and bring on some nice weather! I can't wait to post up some new work and shoot at the fun new locations I have discovered!

What's in your (vacuum) bag? south jersey photographer

2010-01-14T06:30:00.001-08:00

I finally had some time to do a little spring cleaning in the studio. I moved all the equipment and props from one side of the room to the other, and gave it a gooooooood vacuuming! I had to smile as I watched what was filling up the vacuum. I can honestly say that the vacuum bag consists of a little dust and mostly GLITTER!! You know, glitter, the stuff that makes little girls sparkle!! I was so amused by this concept of having the prettiest dirt in my vacuum that I had to write about it!

I am about to hang a new backdrop and steam out the wrinkles for my next shoot. What's in the works? Well, there's a first birthday, a second birthday, a third birthday, two weddings, and a sexy valentine for some lucky guy...

I have enjoyed this winter so far. Did I just say that?? Wow. I had so much to do and I feel much better being stuck indoors when outdoors is cold and miserable anyhow. I am still working on several projects but I have completed the homemade pinhole camera I bought myself for Christmas! It took days to build since glue had to dry before you could move on. The camera takes...... drum roll, please...... FILM!!! I shot the first test roll and well, not too shabby for a cardboard camera in the year 2010! I am so excited about its old school look. For those of you who still love an occasional roll of film in your life, I use a lab called Viewpoint Photo located in Marlton, NJ. (856)596-8118 It is the last best place to process film and get quality prints. The two shots above are from the pinhole camera! One is a "quadruple exposure!" Enjoy your day!!

The Un-Blog

2010-01-08T07:45:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year to all! Being an avid Facebooker, I have seen many of you sticking to your resolutions and making all the wonderful changes you said you would! Kudos to all!

I am calling this post the Un-Blog and I will explain why. When I first started blogging, I thought it would be fun and easy. I usually love talking and sharing. But I found that the things I wanted to say were quite personal and I had to filter the feelings I wanted to really write about. But today, since I am in rare form and it's a new year, I'm going to tell a story that most would say I should not have been so open about.

It starts with another photographer's blog. I enjoy seeing other photographer's work so much! It's an obsession, but a healthy one! The talent is intoxicating and the inspiration is priceless! I love reading blogs to see how my colleagues and I are living the artful life.

I recently read a New Years blog written by a talented photographer who was making a list of all the people she wanted to thank for "really" helping her "get where she is today." I got instant chills. See, I thought about that list of people I would thank for getting me where I am today, and well, there's no one on it. Sad, but true, I can honestly say that other than the man who built my lovely website, I have no one to thank for helping me to get where I am today. The reason, I chose to write about this is because when you see the work I will post from this holiday season, you will know that I did every single bit of it by myself, from start to finish, with no help at all. I think that's something to be proud of! And so that is why I am being brutally honest in this post. I do see how far I still have to go, and I realize that getting there alone will be a long journey, but I have been trekking down this road alone for years and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon. There is so much I still want to learn and maybe someday, I will have some people to put on that list! I look forward to that.

Where Did The Day Go?

2009-11-04T13:04:00.000-08:00

I often wonder about this whole Daylight Savings Time thing. I drove home from Cliff Mautner's studio yesterday around 5:15 and saw the sky fading into night over the course of my drive home. His place is only about 20 minutes from here and in those few fleeting moments, I welcomed evening from my car. Only problem is, I still had so many hours of work to go at home! But my body saw the night and became tired and ready to chill out! I know Daylight Savings serves a purpose, but I feel like I rush around now to get things done before I lose the light!! I have to start my days earlier and I want to end them sooner. I must say I am a fan of cozy candle light evenings, but I miss the summer sun so much! You could photograph well into the 8:00 hour and still have warm light to play with. Now, I have to make it a point to go outside by 5:00 so I get to see the day turn into night. I have this crazy obsession with the last light of every day. I always make it a point to bid farewell to the day and say thank you for gracing us with light! I find myself going out to see night-fall so darn early now. I am not so sure I am a fan of this new time. Might as well embrace it, we have a whole winter ahead of us! But one thing is for sure: I can't wait to "spring ahead!" (And yes, losing an hour of sleep is so very worth gaining more hours of wonderful light!)

Happy Haunting Part 2

2009-10-31T11:00:00.000-07:00

There's just something about Halloween that makes me think of my childhood home. I can clearly remember the old man across the street who always grew a pumpkin patch in his back yard. We would sneak over there and sit our little bums down and wait for hours as the night fell for "The Great Pumpkin" to arrive. I remember the warm orange glow from the windows of the houses as twilight darkened the autumn skies. I remember the sliver of moon that hung over my best friend's house. I even remember seeing the man in the moon! I didn't care for much candy even back then. It was the spirit of the holiday that found a place in my heart from way back then until now.

My house today has very much the same feeling as my childhood home (by design of course). The only thing missing for my daughter is that old man's pumpkin patch that stole my heart and gave me the fondness I have today for Fall. I hope my daughter collects these childhood moments in her soul and tries to show her own children how it was for her to grow up in her childhood haunted haven! Happy Halloween to all!

Happy Haunting Part 1

2009-10-26T09:17:00.000-07:00

I never thought I'd be too busy to enjoy my favorite time of year, but this month has CREEPED by so quickly! I just wanted to post a SPOOKY fun session with two very cute but scary witches! What fun it is to do Halloween sessions! Anything goes as far as color and effects! I love to have this much fun with photos! I am working on more Halloween projects right now and this week is full of haunts! I hope to have more posted soon but until then Happy Haunting!!

I love That Song!

2009-10-14T13:49:00.000-07:00

There's this great song about Jack and Sally from The Nightmare Before Christmas movie and how they'll have Halloween on Christmas.....(blink182) I just love that idea because I have been spending my October designing the most wonderful custom holiday cards for Christmas! But I am the biggest LOVER of Halloween on the planet! So in order for me to not miss the spirit of Fall, I have decided to have Halloween on Christmas every year! I know that may not work for everyone but it's just right for me!

I am already shooting for holiday cards but that doesn't mean you can't still do a Halloween session! And of course, getting an early start on your holiday photos will make life much easier during the season. Just think of all the extra dozens of cookies you'll be able to bake since your holiday photos and photo gifts are already done! And then you can swing by my house with all those extra cookies and hang out with me ;)

Call me soon to book your session! December 10th is the latest booking date I can promise holiday delivery! I can't wait to see you!

Bad Bad Blogger!!!

2009-09-25T17:10:00.000-07:00

I am so sorry I have been delinquent with my blogging! The good news is that I have been busy ALL summer long making new great photos to show you! I was hesitant to write until I made some updates to the website but I felt the need to check in and say hello to Fall and the busy holiday season about to begin for me. Now that my wonderful web-dude is back from his vacation, I hope to have some new samples put up and a few other updates as soon as possible. Did you hear that, web-dude?? wink wink

It was a fabulous summer season of photos! We did have some rain to contend with, a few rescheduled sessions, but lots of beautiful days and studio sessions indoors too! There were weddings, births, birthdays, big blue eyes, graduations, silly kids, models, dancers, tweens and high school seniors! I am happy to be so busy! This month I plan on cleaning out the studio to make room for more furniture and unique backgrounds. And lately I have felt like Indiana Jones on a quest for the Holy Grail of lenses! I will have it in my hands soon!! So with that said, I must say that I look forward to the next season of photos! Things get booked up quickly so I hope to hear from you soon! www.ImagesByNicki.com

Pennies From Heaven

2009-08-09T15:01:00.000-07:00

The year I was born, my grandfather started a very BIG piggy bank for me. I believe it is "Porky the Piggy Bank" to be exact! Over the last 36 years, my grandparents have put penny after penny in this bank for me for "when I grew up". My grandmom must have thought I finally grew up because she gave me the bank the other day! So funny!
My family and I decided to crack old Porky open and see what treasures he held. Well, after all those years, 75 POUNDS of coins and almost disabling the coin the counter at the bank, I am the proud "grown up" with $130.00 whole dollars to spend! LOL!! It was so much fun to spend that time sorting through old coins with my daughter. When I held every penny in my hand, I knew one of my amazing grandparents had also touched that penny! I just wanted to say thank you and I miss you to my grandfather, Nicholas, who thought the world of his grandchildren.

Avery and Aaron

2009-08-02T17:04:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh yes, Avery and Aaron, my niece and nephew. Two beautiful little kids. Two very funny little kids! So many days go by in our busy lives and we don't realize how many special little moments we are forgetting about as we move on to the next day. So I drove to my sister's house, camera in hand to prove just that. I just watched with my lens as we spent the day playing with the kids, braiding hair, swinging on the swings and picking flowers. It was great but through my photos you can really see how great it was! My sister has this day forever now. And someday she's going to love these photos soooo much!

Kristy and Justin

2009-07-22T12:05:00.000-07:00

I very rarely get to be the one with privileged information, but this story is about how I was one of two people who knew about a great surprise about to happen.

Kristy's friends and family decided that they wanted to surprise her with a 40th birthday party and "somehow" Kristy found out. Well she wasn't about to let them get one over on her, so she decided to surprise her friends and family right back by marrying her fiance Justin during the party!! Only the minister and I knew the event that was about to unfold. We anxiously awaited her arrival to the restaurant, looking around at the faces that thought they were surprising her. I smiled as she walked over to the microphone to spring the good news on the crowd. I was all too ready to capture their looks of double surprise! It was so neat to be "in" on this little secret!
The wedding turned out to be wonderful! Great music, delicious food, and fun fun times had by all! I only wish I had more time to photograph the bride and groom in the wondrous late day light that fleeted away much faster than our memories will.

Another Wedding!

2009-07-12T08:41:00.000-07:00

I had a great time yesterday working with Cliff http://www.cmphotography.com/ at the wedding of Danielle and Micheal. The Four Seasons Hotel in Philadelphia http://www.fourseasons.com/philadelphia/ always does such a nice job. And take it from me, when The Eddie Bruce Band http://www.eddiebruce.com/ plays, the dance floor is NEVER empty!! Wow, what a band!

The bride Danielle was absolutely beautiful despite her battle with rheumatoid arthritis, she glowed like any bride should on her wedding day. It was cool outside for a summer in day in July but the entire wedding had to take place completely indoors. That is always a challenge for any photographer. But Cliff and his amazing "window light" made it happen! Of course I was there with a boom flash to fill in what we couldn't find naturally.

After shooting with Cliff's lenses last night, it was clear that I am going to forgo my shoe fetish and start saving up for some new Nikor lenses! Oh I love my shoes, but Nikon, you have my heart completely! :)

Images by Nicki - My First Blog

2009-07-09T09:54:00.000-07:00

Hello first blog! OK so I feel like Carrie Bradshaw. But that isn't such a bad thing at all. In fact Sex And The City is one of my favorite shows. Instead of writing about those wonderful creatures we call men, I thought I'd write about the fish eye lens. I know I know, you'd rather hear about men. Well, maybe next time. ;)

The thing I love about any wide angle lens is the way it forces you to get right into the scene, and I mean INTO the scene!! It's hardly as much fun standing aloof and zooming in with our big fancy zoom lenses. When you switch gears and put on a wide angle things get tiny unless you move in. That my friends, is the funnest part of taking pictures!! Unless of course you are in a patch of poison ivy as I had the unfortunate experience of doing a couple weeks ago. OK but lets say you are driving around the back roads of small town and you find a dilapidated old diner. Hello! Get your butt out of the car and walk right on up to that magnificent piece of Americana and shoot it UP CLOSE!! Trust me, it's so fun. Any one up for a Nicki road trip?? Visit me at my new website at www.imagesbynicki.com