Maria Vasallo Photography

2007-11-09T08:48:00.001-08:00

Introducing the
2007 Holiday Card Collection
by Maria Vasallo Photography

It's that time of year again, and I have FINALLY finished putting together all of my holiday card offerings. I hope you like them!

Except for the square designs, all cards are 5x7 and available as traditional folded cards, or postcards. All are press printed on linen paper and are simply exquisite!

To make a great impression this Holiday season, the square cards are perfect. They do cost more, and the US Postal Service also charges more to mail each one because they cannot be processed with a machine. So, instead of the $ .41 postage for each, I believe it's over $1.00. They are really beautiful, though.

Here are some samples, but you can see my whole collection here.

2007-07-23T20:28:00.000-07:00

Some Recent Shoots

It's been a while since I've posted an update, but with summer and school being out, my time doing fun stuff on the computer has been pretty limited. But I did want to share some of my favorite images of recent photo sessions. I've been busy and I want to thank everyone who's given me their vote of confidence and most of all, trust, to enter their lives and share a few special moments with them. I am happy to be able to give them something they'll treasure forever.

This first series is of a dear friend, her husband and son, and her in-laws. Aren't they a beautiful family?

Next is beautifully pregnant Kiersten and her gorgeous little boy Trent. This shoot was so fun to do and it was such a perfect day! What a pretty pregnant lady, eh?

Below is 9-month old LILY, whom I also photographed as a newborn. In fact, she was the little itty bitty thing that was on my business cards and a promotional postcard I had made up. When her mom called me to schedule the most recent photo session, I couldn't believe that 9 months had passed already. Isn't she just beautiful? Look at those eyes. She's going to be a heartbreaker. Daddy, I hope you're ready.

Here she is as a newborn:

Well, I do have a lot more to share, but it's late and I'm tired. I'll be back soon with additional favorites!

2007-05-31T22:49:00.000-07:00

Introducing

The Designer Collections!

Someone asked me the other day what I wanted most out of this business, and after thinking about it for a minute, much to my (and her) surprise, I realized it's not the money at all. (Don't get me wrong...it definitely helps) :) My goal, and perhaps I should make it my mission statement, is to capture beautiful images and moments in people's lives for them to cherish forever. I create portraits that are meant to be displayed, more so than tucked away in photo albums.

In the last year since starting my photography business, I've found that people WANT to display their portraits and desire to do so in a meaningful and stylish way, but most struggle with figuring out how and where to hang them. So I've come up with a win-win offer to help those wanting to create the designer look they see on home design shows or catalogs by doing the "design" work for them and offering portrait collections to suit their needs. All they have to do is determine the size of wall space where they want to hang a wall display and I provide them with the design to fit and the prints to go with it. Voila! Instant designer collection! So after placing their order, clients can shop for their frames, hang them and wait for their prints to arrive, pop them in and they are DONE. How cool and easy is that?!

Here is a sampling of some of these collections and how they might look in your home. Rest assured, if you order a collection, they'll be of your images and not the ones in these displays (unless you ARE in these pictures, of course.) :-D

Ok, now that I've finished this project, hopefully I can start getting to bed at a decent hour again.

Design Collections

offered by Maria Vasallo Photography:

A Simple Statement of Style

Please call or email me for more information.

maria@mariavphotography.com

2007-05-18T21:03:00.000-07:00

UNIQUE FATHER'S DAY GIFTS

Take 10% off of listed prices!

I don't know about you, but every.single.year I struggle with what to get my dad and my husband for Father's Day. It's so hard buying for the guys! If you are thinking this sounds like you, I might have a solution.

I have put together a few photo products that are sure to please any guy who's a dad. Photo products that aren't "cheesy" and masculine enough for them to have.

The Shaving Kit

Perfect for the man who travels!

The Computer Sleeve

So he can safely carry his laptop anywhere -- perfect for storing in a briefcase or backpack!

The Messenger/Computer Bag

But hurry! Father's Day will be here before you know it and the deadline for these is May 30th for delivery by Father's Day!

2007-05-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

In honor of Caroline

I photographed this beautiful 6-year old not too long ago. It was clear to me right away that she is special and is destined for greatness. Her eyes are incredibly soulful and telling, and when speaking to her, it is hard to believe you are speaking to a kindergartener.

Just last week little Caroline was diagnosed with a brain tumor. There is still much to be learned about it and the diagnosis is ongoing, but her spirits, not surprisingly, are good.

The family is surrounded by wonderful people who love them and are carrying them through this difficult time with their thoughts and prayers.

I too will be praying and hoping all turns out well. The road ahead will be difficult of course, but Caroline is an incredible little person who will be an inspiration to all of us.

2007-04-17T23:05:00.000-07:00

Maternity Photo Session

I want to share one of my latest sessions, which I did for my friend Julianne. She is the cutest pregnant lady I've ever seen. Julianne is petite and so is her belly. She looks absolutely beautiful in her pregnant splendor. She and her husband are expecting their firt baby—a girl— in the next month and I was delighted to be allowed to photograph her during this special time in their lives.

They have a name selected but are keeping that fun little secret to themselves. I'd like to point out that Maria is a very classic and stoic name. You know, just in case you are still undecided. :-)

Congratulations! And I can't wait to meet (and photograph?) the little bundle of joy!

2007-04-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

A New Venture

I was recently contacted by the owner of Gear Down Wear to do a photo shoot for his clothing line, which consists of really cool, hip casual wear. T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, that sort of thing. You know, like for when you just want to relax and have fun. A mutual friend put us together (thank you Danielle of Meant to Be Weddings !) and we went ahead with it. Mark knew I'm not very much experienced in true fashion/commercial photography, but both of us being small business owners and basically just recently having started out, we thought we'd give it a try.

We did it last week on a Saturday in April, when it should have been at least somewhat decent weather, right? NOT. It was 40 degrees and VERY windy. We all froze, but I have to give kudos to ou
r models, who were such incredibly great sports. The poor souls had to model summer clothes in wintery weather. But, I think it was a success. I am very satisfied with the results, as I hope Mark and his group is.

Folks, I saw and touched the clothes, and it is such soft, comfortable material, that I just may pick up a few items myself. The colors are fantastic. Makes me really hate this late winter we're having around here. So go take a peek and tell him what you think.

Oh, and I got to meet Mark's two beautiful twin baby girls when he came by to get the cd's. They have the most amazing eyes.

Anyway, here are some images from that day...

2007-04-14T22:29:00.000-07:00

A Few Recent Shots

I've had the privilege and honor to be selected as the "official" photographer for a wonderful family of five. Mom is great to work with and dad has just returned from a tour in Iraq. I've been to their home 4 times and each time had a wonderful time with the children, who are, by the way gorgeous! These folks sure know how to make beautiful babies! I can't wait for the summer when I get to do a family portrait. So here are a few random images...

Another Cutie Patootie!

I love what I do! I mean, not only do I get do work on a craft I positively am passionate about, but I get to work with babies! There's nothing like the precious little toes of newborns and infants, the soft skin and innocent and inquiring eyes, their special baby scent and oh their expressions! This little guy was a perfect gentleman and is just the cutest. I am so honored his parents chose me to capture some very special moments.

2007-04-13T20:12:00.000-07:00

BUCKET BAG

Mother's Day Sale!

Happy Spring everyone!
Well, it's SUPPOSED to be Spring, but it doesn't seem to want to arrive.

Regardless, it's almost May, and Mother's Day is just around the corner. So if you haven't already begun thinking about what you are going to get mom, grandma, the wifey, your sister, or any other lovely mom in your life, here's something worth considering.

From now until the end of April, order any of the Mother's Day specially reduced bags below, and get 10% off the price! I still have all prior sessions archived and can use any image from your photo session with me.

Wow the mom(s) in your life with this unique, custom gift they will be proud to show off!

AROUND TOWNER

CLUTCH

I am also excited to introduced the brand new Photo Diaper Bag - perfect for new or soon-to-be mommies!!! This beauty will be the envy of all mothers everywhere. It features convenient elastic side bottle pockets and a roomy interior with a zipper pocket and water resistant lining. The ample interior space provides room for a changing pad, rattles, and your well-worn copy of Dr. Spock. A zipper top closure gives extra security. As most of the bags, it can be constructed with a photo on one or both sides (added $15 charge for both sides).

The Diaper Bag

Introductory Price: $100.00

(will be $145 after May)

(10% discount does not apply for Diaper Bag offer; cannot combine promotions)

Download the whole product line here: http://www.mariavphotography.com/mvphotobags.pdf

MORE SPECIALS!

And don't forget I also offer beatiful custom photo jewelry, which is 10% off now through the end of May as well. Deadline for Mother's Day is April 27th, so if you want to order, hurry and email me PRONTO. For new clients that book within the next 2 weeks, take an extra 15% off.

See more images here: http://www.mariavphotography.com/mvjewelry.pdf

FOR EXISTING CLIENTS ONLY:

If you've had a session with me and have ordered prints, check this out. Until the end of May, I am offering 15% off any order from your sessions. This includes prints, canvasses, storyboards, cards or postcards and invitations. Got a birthday to plan? An announcement to make? I can design invitations or any kind of announcement for you using ANY image from your session. Sorry, this does not apply to photo bags or jewelry...

Keep checking back, as I will soon be posting some fun Father's Day promotions!
In the meantime, let's all wish real hard for Spring to come soon this year!

2006-11-29T19:39:00.000-08:00

New Product Offering:
Custom Photo Jewelry

Season’s Greetings to all! I hope everyone is enjoying the build-up to the Holidays and you are out there finding good bargains on your Holiday gift buying. I actually ventured out on Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) at 5am to get an excellent deal on a brand new large widescreen monitor to make my Photoshop work much easier. I was so tired that day, but it was well worth it!

It’s been a while since I’ve updated here, but I’ve been extremely busy these days. The business of photography is a lot more than just taking pictures and I’ve become an insomniac working late hours into the night on my website, business planning, marketing materials (all written and designed by me!), etc. It’s a lot of work, but I enjoy it!

Earlier this month, I attended a major professional photographer’s expo and convention in the Big Apple and met a lot of new vendors that included professional digital photo labs, equipment distributors, unique photo product suppliers and many others. One of the vendors that highly impressed me is a small photo jewelry maker. I’ve done my homework and have been approved as a professional photographer distributor. So I’m happy to announce the addition of these beautiful pieces to my product line.

They are portrait tiles that are made into necklaces and bracelets. They are absolutely exquisite! And the price on them is phenomenal. They would make fantastic holiday gifts for any mothers, grandmothers, mother-in-laws, friends – whoever! But here’s the catch. I’m late on signing on with them and won’t meet their regular holiday cut-off deadline of December 3rd. Their RUSH deadline is December 10th for an extra $15 charge. However, there’s no time to schedule a bunch of photo sessions to make that deadline. So, as an introductory offer, I can order these products with YOUR images (as long as they are good quality images). For first time orders only, I will also offer a 10% discount! Not bad, eh? I just want to get them out there so when people ask where you got them, you can tell them Maria Vasallo Photography!!!

Don’t forget I also have Photo Bags as well. These are a huge hit with my clients. Email me for more information and a price list on either product line!

Additional products offered:

 Collages
 Storyboards
 Photo Cards
 Holiday Cards
 Invitations
 Baby and engagement announcements

Wishing everyone a fun and joyous Holiday Season. Happy Shopping!!!

2006-10-08T21:30:00.000-07:00

Holiday Cards Available Now!

(See the limited-time offer at the bottom of this post)

Well, as of today, there are only 11 weekends left before Christmas. Can you believe it? That's a pretty scary thought when you consider all those things we must get done by that time, including getting those family Holiday portraits taken and cards sent out.

The great news is that I have a bunch of unique Holiday card designs available for purchase with images from your photo sessions! So, if you've been thinking about getting a family portrait done, but dreading the trip to the mall with dressed up kids, spouses and everyone expected to behave their best (and look perfect) throughout the whole ordeal, I have wonderful news for you!

I can help you kill two birds with one stone! Book an appointment with me and I'll come to you for your portraits. All you have to do is relax and be comfortable in your own home -- on your own turf -- and I'll do the rest. You'll come out of it with a beautiful family portrait AND your Holiday cards. And best of all, you'll have avoided the "mall" trip and the blood, sweat and tears (literally) it takes to accomplish these Holiday "must do's."

How's that for crossing something off your list right away? (Maybe this year you can actually keep that promise to yourself to do it sooner rather than the hectic later this time of year brings!)

And as a great incentive to lighten your load, I'm offering a limited-time special: Receive a FREE 8x10 portrait with your paid sitting and Holiday Card purchase!

Check out the gallery on my website: www.mariavphotography.com for all the available Holiday Card designs. And if you really have your heart set on something a little different, just let me know! I'd be happy to design a card especially for you!

So don't wait. I have limited appointments available -- they're filling up fast! Call or email me today!

2006-10-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

NOW OFFERING BEAUTIFUL PHOTO BAGS!

I am happy to announce that I am now offering photo bags featuring images from your photo sessions with me. These bags are of an elegant and durable microfiber material of excellent quality and value. The styles range from the smallest coin purse, to tote bags, purses, and beach totes, among others. They range in prices from $40 to $190.

Please let me know if you are interested in being the proud owner of one (or more) of these practical and beautiful bags. For those that have already had photo sessions with me, I'm offering a 10% discount off the price as a thank you for helping me build my portfolio.

Email me for more information and a detailed price list, bag descriptions, photos and specifications.

2006-09-01T21:18:00.000-07:00

Wow, I'm so incredibly grateful for all the interest in my photography services! I am just about wrapping up my portfolio building and am ready to start booking real photo shoots.

My official website is now up and may be viewed at www.mariavphotography.com .

I am still looking for volunteers for maternity shoots, so if you are visibly pregnant, please email me at maria@mariavphotography.com

Thanks for all your support!

Photography

2006-07-19T20:40:00.000-07:00

Well, I am going to take the suggestions that some of my friends and family have made with regards to my passion for photography and digital imaging. I am contemplating doing portrait photography and simple, yet classy photo invitations, greeting cards, birth and/or engagement announcements as well. I love my hobby and want to expand my abilities while making a little money on the side.

Since I am in the process of building a portfolio, I would like to offer my services to you and your family with no sitting fee. I don’t have a studio, so I plan to shoot the photos on location either in a public setting (i.e. a park, beach, etc.) or in the subjects’ homes. This is also going to be a learning process for me, so I can’t promise you “professional” quality images—yet, but I am certain I can achieve high-quality candid and posed portraits that are positively a cut above your everyday snapshots. My passion is babies/children/maternity and family portraiture.

Soooo, if you are interested in helping me out, please let me know so we can set up a time and place for your session. In return, I will provide you with free prints up to 5x10 and and an 8x10 of the best shots, including creative manipulation as I practice using my photo software. For anything larger or prints on canvas, for example, or other photo products, I can offer discounted rates. I also ask for permission to use the images on a website and other marketing materials, should I decide to focus on this long-term.

For now, I am only extending this offer to a few key people to get started. I don't have a full-blown website or a price list, but plan to have a few things in place by mid August. In the meantime, please let me know asap if you are interested. I am mostly available on Mondays and Wednesdays for now, but we can discuss scheduling later.

Please email me at maria@mariavphotography.com for more information.

Thank you!