I have been working with my friend Melvin Powel who is an excellent film and video maker to create some video’s for my photography business. I already have lots of text on both my main web site and this blog about my approach to photography and what makes our studio unique, but as a visual artist I very much believe that video is a good way to convey my message in a compelling way.
This is the first of hopefully many video’s that we will be producing together. We are working with the wonderful folks from Mixpo that provide an excellent platform for small business’s wanting to create their own videoad and its their solution that is hosting this. Just click on the image below to start the video.
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This weekend I was printing up some re-prints of this photograph, one of my favorites from a couple of sessions we did with these three sisters recently. Although a little more ‘formal’ than much of my work I love this composition as it frames the lovely ladies so well within the frame and provides a connection between the three of them with their hands on their shoulders. The other factor for me in why I liked this is that we decided to print and tone this as a black and white print. Personally as much as I love color and I will often say that’s how I see the world, yet in many ways black and white prints often has more of a impact. To me it it requires the viewer to think about the print much more a color print where people often get a little distracted by the colors.
The original photograph was printed and framed as a beautiful 20×26 wall portrait. This was given as a gift to their father and he completely loved it. Nothing better than hearing that people love your work!
Earlier today I was working on some photographs for a client from one of the many sessions that we did before the holiday. It was one of those crazy sessions with two very fun and high energy boys having a great time. This photograph caught my attention this morning. I loved the height of the shot and the perspective with the adult sized stool and his little legs just tipping over the top. He was clearly happy and amused at it all. Although he was very steady Dad was standing just outside of the frame to help him off.
Coming up with special gift ideas for Mother’s Day can be a real challenge. You have so many options out there, from traditional flower arrangements to lovely jewelry to a fancy dinner out at a great restaurant. And of course there’s always chocolate — in every shape and size. These gifts are appreciated, but something’s missing. They’re not a unique expression of you or your feelings.
So we’ve created a perfect Mother’s Day gift that’s truly distinctive and one that only you can offer your mum — a photography session designed especially for her. You and your family are unique in her life. I don’t know of any mum that wouldn’t love to have beautifully composed and framed photographs of her family that she can hang on her walls. Having your portrait made takes just a little bit of time and planning on your part. But it really shows that you care, and mums just love that.
This year we have put together a great little package for you. We’ve taken our popular Studio Sessions and bundled it together with a framed 8×12 photograph. We then place the photograph in a museum-quality 12×16 black frame. Our studio sessions are normally $250. The photograph and frame combination is normally priced at $280.
To celebrate Mother’s Day we are offering both of these together for the low price of $190.00.
If you haven’t visited us yet at our studio in Seattle, this is the perfect time to come in and try our services and take advantage of these savings. We recently finished this video of Glenn, a Seattle local who did just that last year, and his photographs were a huge hit with his wife and kids. Click on the thumbnail below to watch the short video.
To qualify for this special Mother’s Day package, you must book your session before May 10th, 2008, though the actual date of your session can be scheduled for any time afterwards, even after Mother’s Day if you like. You can choose to sneak into the studio on your own or with the kids if you want to surprise Mum. Or you can make her part of the fun and have photographs taken of everyone while you’re all here. If you decide to wait until after Mother’s Day for your session, we’ll make up an attractive gift card you can give her on her special day.
With the new year upon us many people are using this time to take a fresh look at their business and update their plans and marketing. As such we have been getting a few inquires recently from folks looking to create some new head shots that they can use on both their traditional marketing as well as their online marketing. Last week we got to meet and spend some time with Angelica Spates who is a real estate professional that serves the Seattle and Fauntleroy areas. I have to say one of the things that I love about having the business is all the new people and interesting conversations that get into. Angelica was one session that I especially enjoyed spending some time with. Here are a couple of the proofs from our time together.
No matter how long you have been in your relationship with Valentines around the corner its a time to take a few moments to reflect on your love and think about how much that person means to you. And if you are looking for a unique gift this year for that someone special that is more personal than a bracelet or some other purchased item then why not consider a gift of fine art photography?
We have been working on putting together a new promotion for the Valentines season that I wanted to let people know about. Basically we have included our Studio Session with one of our beautiful wrapped canvas photographs and then this really cute Coach key-ring in one package for just $350.
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And especially for you married folks out there, when was the last time you had professional photographs taken of you two? Many people I ask answer that question with just two words ‘my wedding’! Seriously, what better time to capture your love on film than now. Interested in getting more details then click here
One of the photography sessions that we had here in the studio during the holidays was with someone that I used to know when I lived in Sydney, Australia. It turns out that Terry now lives in Seattle, having moved with his family some two years ago and I had no idea. He actually works with a very good client of ours and was asking her if she knew of any good photographers in the city. Apparently when she mentioned my name as a recommendation he looked at her with this puzzled look and then said ‘you mean the Phil Holden that used to live in Sydney?’ or words to that effect. I was a little surprised to say the least as was I when I got the email!
After a little bit of a catch-up we managed to arrange a time that worked and they all came into the studio. We had quite the crowd with Terry and Ingrid, their daughter and boyfriend who were visiting from Sydney and their two youngest boys. This shot of the two boys goofing around was one of my favorites from that day.
Last week Olivia and Noah came into the studio along with Mum and Grandma. This is the second time that I have gotten the chance to work with Olivia and Noah and it was a lot of fun. One of the things that I always focus on when I’m working with more than one client is to capture the relationships between the various folks that come in. Typically that is all about the love, but at times I get the chance to capture a few of those other emotions! Here we have Olivia who clearly loves her young brother to bits, but at times you tell that she finds him a little bit annoying. I loved the shot as her brother was all goofy but clearly she wasn’t so amused.
Whether it’s your first pregnancy or your fourth, it’s such a memorable moment in your life that it’s worth celebrating - by capturing it in unique works of art. It doesn’t matter if you’re reserved or outgoing; we will capture your personality and do it in a warm and relaxing environment where you’ll be comfortable wearing as much clothing or revealing as much as yourself as you like. Your maternity session will take place in our photography studio in downtown Seattle. You are very welcome to bring your partner, children, family, friends and even your pets if you want. Or just come alone. Our Maternity Photography Package includes
A 20×26″ classical gallery style framed photograph or a 16×24″ canvas wall art
Optional low resolution digital photographs if you want them
These services retail for $900 but by signing up for our maternity package you get all of them for $375. We will also provide additional discounts on any extra prints you wish to purchase. If you also decide to book one of our newborn packages, we will provide you an added discount for booking two or more.
From experience, we find that the best time for your session is between four and eight weeks before your due date, but if you are closer that’s okay. Some of our clients also like to do two sessions, one much earlier in the pregnancy - this allows you to capture the growth in your belly! If you want to do a second sitting just ask and we can chat.
One-of-a-kind art photography makes the perfect gift for family and friends. A gift certificate to the Fine Art Photography Studio in Seattle is a memorable way to say you care. International professional photographer Phil Holden combines artistry with a natural ability to capture the genuine essence of people in distinctive works of art, gorgeously printed and framed using only museum-quality materials that generations will cherish.
Your photography gift certificate is custom-designed for you to ensure that it makes the ideal gift for the person you have in mind. You can choose to give one of our many services or convenient packages — and even add an art-framed piece if you’d like. No matter what value certificate you select, your special someone will receive a truly unique photography experience, resulting in visual treasures that will last for ages.
Whether it’s your first pregnancy or your fourth, it’s such a memorable moment in your life that it’s worth celebrating - by capturing it in unique works of art. It doesn’t matter if you’re reserved or outgoing; we will capture your personality and do it in a warm and relaxing environment where you’ll be comfortable wearing as much clothing or revealing as much as yourself as you like. Your maternity session will take place in our photography studio in downtown Seattle. You are very welcome to bring your partner, children, family, friends and even your pets if you want. Or just come alone. Our Maternity Photography Package includes
A 20×26″ classical gallery style framed photograph or a 16×24″ canvas wall art
Optional low resolution digital photographs if you want them
These services retail for $900 but by signing up for our maternity package you get all of them for $375. We will also provide additional discounts on any extra prints you wish to purchase. If you also decide to book one of our newborn packages, we will provide you an added discount for booking two or more.
From experience, we find that the best time for your session is between four and eight weeks before your due date, but if you are closer that’s okay. Some of our clients also like to do two sessions, one much earlier in the pregnancy - this allows you to capture the growth in your belly! If you want to do a second sitting just ask and we can chat.
The first weeks with your new baby are truly remarkable and unforgettable. There is nothing quite like that newborn stage with those wrinkles and dimples and your baby’s soft skin. The best time to capture photographs of your newborn is within the first 4 weeks because that’s when they are smallest. Naked babies make the most precious photographs, but you’ll want some versatile photographs as well. So, bring your favorite baby outfit - or three!
The Newborn Package typically takes place in our photography studio in downtown Seattle, but we know it’s often easier to do it at your home so we are happy to do that assuming that travel is reasonable. We’ll make sure to schedule plenty of time to allow for feeding and changing and for you to savor the experience with your newborn. Your partner, other children and family are welcome and encouraged to accompany you to the session and create some great baby’s first family photographs.
At this time we are offering a special introductory rate of $99 for our newborn package.
The introductory package includes an extended length photography session and a photographic slideshow of you and your newborn baby that we will upload to our website and then email to you and your family. In addition, if you purchase one of our recommended fine art wall portraits when you book your newborn baby package we have special pricing available to help you celebrate your new arrival.
We have a few different frames for you to choose from. A 16×24″ canvas wrapped photograph, or a 20×26″ classic museum gallery style frame, or a 20×24″ classic museum gallery style frame with a twist - it displays 4 square photographs. Each of these wonderful framed pieces are priced at just $375 each when they are pre purchased. This is a savings of at least $200.
Whether it’s your first pregnancy or your fourth, it’s such a memorable moment in your life that it’s worth celebrating - by capturing it in unique works of art. It doesn’t matter if you’re reserved or outgoing; we will capture your personality and do it in a warm and relaxing environment where you’ll be comfortable wearing as much clothing or revealing as much as yourself as you like. Your maternity session will take place in our photography studio in downtown Seattle. You are very welcome to bring your partner, children, family, friends and even your pets if you want. Or just come alone. Our Maternity Photography Package includes
A 20×26″ classical gallery style framed photograph or a 16×24″ canvas wall art
Optional low resolution digital photographs if you want them
These services retail for $900 but by signing up for our maternity package you get all of them for $375. We will also provide additional discounts on any extra prints you wish to purchase. If you also decide to book one of our newborn packages, we will provide you an added discount for booking two or more.
From experience, we find that the best time for your session is between four and eight weeks before your due date, but if you are closer that’s okay. Some of our clients also like to do two sessions, one much earlier in the pregnancy - this allows you to capture the growth in your belly! If you want to do a second sitting just ask and we can chat.
Whether it’s your first pregnancy or your fourth, it’s such a memorable moment in your life that it’s worth celebrating - by capturing it in unique works of art. It doesn’t matter if you’re reserved or outgoing; we will capture your personality and do it in a warm and relaxing environment where you’ll be comfortable wearing as much clothing or revealing as much as yourself as you like. Your maternity session will take place in our photography studio in downtown Seattle. You are very welcome to bring your partner, children, family, friends and even your pets if you want. Or just come alone. Our Maternity Photography Package includes
A 20×26″ classical gallery style framed photograph or a 16×24″ canvas wall art
Optional low resolution digital photographs if you want them
These services retail for $900 but by signing up for our maternity package you get all of them for $375. We will also provide additional discounts on any extra prints you wish to purchase. If you also decide to book one of our newborn packages, we will provide you an added discount for booking two or more.
From experience, we find that the best time for your session is between four and eight weeks before your due date, but if you are closer that’s okay. Some of our clients also like to do two sessions, one much earlier in the pregnancy - this allows you to capture the growth in your belly! If you want to do a second sitting just ask and we can chat.
Trevin: Sorry I missed out on assisting with this shoot! I absolutely love the shots you posted, especially the third one with the flower petals on the ground.
On Safari with Oldupai George: Our photographer for the wedding (Phil Holden, great guy) came by the house last week to watch us interact (or something)… he posted a few of the shots from that on his blog. You can check them out here.
Sheryl: Phil, this just turned out great. Kaitlin and Kaleb had a good time in your studio and particularly loved playing street musicians alongside their faithful hound. They were so excited to present this canvas to their dad, and his reaction did not disappoint. He loved it! Thanks for bringing out my kids’ personalities in many different ways (you actually got teens to smile in many of the other shots!) and thanks for helping us capture this important stage in their lives. Sheryl
Steve: Phil - I love the picture! This is one of the best father’s day gifts I have ever received. Thanks so much for working w/ Sheryl & the kids (& dog) to make this turn out so well.
Phil Holden photography show: more about it on Phil’s blog: http://blog.philholden.com/200 8/05/06/squares-an-exhibition- of-photography-by-phil-holden/ Tags: kuhlman, phil holden, Photography,
DG Haldeman: The baby pictures I love, would have to be feet. I love seeing the babies feet with it’s moms or dads. Lots of white and light ‘pure’ colors are fun with babies. you could do some dark colors just to play with it. and I agree, yawning babies are the cutest! Love the pics too though.
Robin Troy: I’m feeling lucky to have stumbled upon your blog. Your work is lovely; your writing, moving. Thanks for bringing beauty into the world. I look forward to seeing more of your future work. Cheers! RT
Jahnina: Nice idea! The movie meetings reminded me and my Czech friends. We are trying to meet once a week for Czech movies. But we are just three so I wouldn’t have as many silly faces as you do.
mary: Iloved the pic of my neice charlotte.this the first i’ve seen since she was about 5yrs old. great pics.
Julie: really nice! you made a group of amateur models look like pros!
Dianna: Wonderful! thank you for including me in this beautiful bunch. Charlotte and Aaron have good looking friends.
/i: sorry if i broke your computer screens. Actually phili, the first one is probably my second favourite photo you have ever take on me. There are about 300 of the twins & Mel that rank higher, but that first one is pretty cool. /i
Karen Boehm: Thank you, Phil for capturing the absolute essence of this marvelous little guy. I’m the other grandma. Ryan is our first and we think he’s quite marvelous. The photos here show that to perfection. Grandma Karen
MARY JANE JOHNSON: MR.HOLDEN, THE PHOTOGRAPHY YOU DO. THEY ARE JUST BEAUTIFUL. IT’S AN ART OF WORK. TO SEE THE IMAGES.AND WHAT YOU BRING OUT OF THEM. BABY’S FIRST48 HOURS. THEY ARE JUST WONDERFUL. THE PICTURE’S YOU TAKE,BRINGS OUT THE QUALITY.TO APRECAITE THEM. SINCERLY YOUR’S MARY JANE JOHNSON P.S. I AM TRYING TO LOG ON WEBSITE.