A New Chapter for Anne Grant Photography ~ The Tradition Continues

 It seems hard to believe, but 2013 marks the 20th anniversary of Anne Grant Photography.

  
Hardly a day goes by without reflecting on how thankful we are for all the families who have shared their lives with us.

Through the camera lens, we have watched tiny babies grow into young adults, families growing and changing and have been a part of many of your life’s passages.
When someone chooses us as their photographer, we do not take it lightly. It is a great honor when we are able to create portraits as personal art for the walls of your home.

A New Chapter for Anne Grant Photography… 

As we mentioned in a previous newsletter, we have expanded our reach, photographing families not only in the Triad, but throughout the Carolinas and into Georgia.

We will soon be dividing our time between North Carolina and Georgia as we begin the transition to a new location in Cumming, GA near Atlanta. From the Cumming location (near Lake Lanier), we will serve North Georgia and the metro Atlanta region.
  

As If We Weren't Busy Enough...
This summer, we will begin the all-consuming process of putting our house in Clemmons (and attached studio) on the market. We will continue to offer portrait sessions in-studio and in our portrait park until the house sells. At that point, we will be available to you as your destination photographer, photographing your family at places that mean the most to you.
  
We Want To Hear From You...
After almost every session, we talk about who, what, when or where we will be photographing your next session. Whether it's 5 weeks or 5 years, we look forward being a part of that next stage or milestone in your family.
The relationships we have made in the Clemmons studio and over the years in North Carolina run deep and are important to us. (That is such a huge understatement...our clients are like family!)
So, we would love to talk with you about your next child’s senior portraits, the family portrait you've been planning when everyone could get together and any other thoughts you may have on continuing your family’s portrait history. 

  
"What is a Destination Photographer?"

Many photographers go on location at local parks, but we can be there when:
   

• Your extended family meets at your beach house
• Your fall trip to the mountains
• A college campus for graduation or senior year
• The porch of the family home
• Your favorite park
• Your horse farm
• Your grandmother’s garden

The possibilities are endless for finding the location that tells your story!

   

  
The Tradition Continues…

As we do with every session, we will continue to offer the best possible portrait experience, with attention to every detail. Your memories deserve the quality and excellence only an experienced photographer can offer.
One of the things that sets us apart is the planning and preparation to craft each element of your portrait. We will take all the time needed to accomplish the goal of creating portraits you will treasure for years to come.

While we enjoy looking back on all the great memories of the last 20 years at Anne Grant Photography, we are looking forward to being a part of YOUR next chapter—celebrating your lives through the art of photography.

My, How Time Flies! ~ NC Children's Photographer

There are no seven wonders of the world in the eyes of a child. There are seven million.                                                                                                                  ~  Walt Streightiff

Do you ever wonder who pushed the fast forward button on your child's life?
No matter the age of their child, every parent looks back and feels like time went by at lightning speed. Maybe its because we wish we had done this or that for them or with them when they were at a certain age or it could be that life's simple moments seems sweeter the further we get away from them.
It is a running theme in the life of the families who come to the studio.  Many of the babies I photographed as newborns are well into their teens now, so I get a dose of that "life flashing before my eyes" feeling along with their moms.

Lindsay is not that old yet; she's only 7 years old, but it really does seem like a short time ago, she was sleeping peacefully through her first portrait session in the studio. Yep, time flies!

One Family's Portrait History ~ NC Family Portrait Photographer

What does your family's portrait history look like?

Everyone has the desire to follow through with a plan, but many things can get in the way of that actually happening. But for this family, their plans for the portrait history have ended up just like they wanted, only they took a slightly different path than expected.
In 2006, we had their family portrait scheduled and just a few days before their session, they got the happy news that they were expecting their third child. Even though we could have gone ahead with it and continued the portraits when their new addition came, she preferred to wait until the family was "complete".
So, instead we began in 2007 with individual formal portraits of each child at around age 5.  This 5 year project was completed this year which included a family portrait in 2010.
The eclectic portrait gallery in the hallway or stairway that grows with its own pace and cohesive style as life's tapestry unfolds is warm and wonderful. On the other hand, these planned arrangements for personal wall art can become a significant part of your home decor and even passed on as heirlooms for generations to come.
So, I pose the question again...What does your family's portrait history look like?
Is it all you hoped it would be?

"Family faces are magic mirrors.  Looking at people who belong to us, we see the past, present, and future."  ~Gail Lumet Buckley

Express Yourself! { Clemmons, NC Children's Photographer }

Sometimes...

its just the way they look at you 

or look away.
Maybe it's that sweet smile

or just that they want to play.

Wait for the expressions, 

anticipate the moment and they will come!

Portrait Clothing {More Thoughts...}

When people ask us what to wear for their sessions, we do not have a prescribed formula that overrides YOUR choices. When you come to us for personal wall art to suit your decor, we want it to express who you are, so we just share our observations from years of experience and make suggestions based on what you tell us about your family.
I have actually seen others photographer's websites saying "No white bows" or "No matching shirts and jeans" for any of their sessions, promoting their look for the edgiest, coolest pictures on Facebook. We love to bring out the natural lifestyle of a family and edgy,cool images are fabulous if that is what you really want. (Think of an "urban" setting- like a downtown alley, maybe a sofa on the water's edge or even a parking deck .)

However, it could be that you have another purpose for your portraits than trying to do the funkiest contemporary look of the week.The image below shows the same family in colorful clothing (the boys said they were like fall leaves!) and another from the same session all in black tops. An easy change of clothing for a different look.  Both are perfect...they show the love of this family and the boy's personalities. This family chose the colorful clothing for their wall portrait but also ordered some of the others in black shirts and some in black and white.

For larger multi-generational family groups, we do suggest with the number of people involved, different ages and genders, that it may be best to go with something simple and not overthink a concept. Try letting the clothing be a secondary object, with the subjects faces and body language being the main focus of the image.

Does this seem familiar with all the cell phones? Between all the texting, talking, playing games, internet, tweeting and checking all the status updates...Oh, my...how do we find the time to do anything else?

"What Should We Wear?" ~ NC, SC, GA Photographer

One of the most frequent questions we hear is, "What should we wear for our portrait session?"
The answers are as varied as the subjects we photograph, but I wanted to offer some ideas to consider when we are planning your personal wall art to decorate your home.

First, as we dismantle the idea that blonde hair and white clothing will "wash you out", it can actually be just the opposite. On a properly lit portrait, with the skin tones being deeper and warmer than any shade of white, the colors in the complexion stand out even more. Even with a white background, the simplicity can make the subjects the strongest part of the image.

We Are Family! ~ NC Family Portraits ~

We had a wonderful fall portrait season with lots of families and just couldn't wait to share them. However, many of the portraits would make their "debut" as Christmas cards or Christmas gifts, so we had to wait until after the holidays to show off our beautiful Anne Grant Photography families.
We will post them here over the next few weeks and also on our Anne Grant ~ The Village Photographer Facebook Page...don't forget to "Like" us!

American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards™

Earlier in the year, we introduced you to one of our clients, a new member of our studio family, the Ganzert Family.
Robin Ganzert is from right here in Clemmons, but is the President & CEO of the American Humane Association. This keeps her very busy on a national level advancing the protection of  pets, children and farm animals. As a mom of 3 beautiful children and many pets, including some at her parent's farm in Mocksville, she has a lot of first-hand experience about the interaction and relationships of people and animals.
We recently updated some publicity photos for her and her family, and she was excitedly telling us about the American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards. They are down to the 8 finalists out of the 453 dogs nominated from every state in the country.  You can show your love and support for these Hero Dogs by participating in the next round of voting as they compete for the title of 2011 American Hero Dog! No purchase or donation is required to vote, but all votes must be placed by September 30.

More images on the American Humane Association Facebook Page

When we talked with her today, she was in Los Angeles in preparation for the Awards Event on September 30. She is getting to know celebrities such as Betty White, Whoopi Goldberg, Victoria Stilwell, Kristin Chenoweth, and Jillian Michaels who are also involved in the project. She mentioned that even though celebrities have such a different lifestyle and culture than we are used to, that they are really not that much different when you just get to know them as people.
The Hallmark Channel will feature profiles of the winning dogs later on in the fall, but you can be a part of the decision as you place your vote for these wonderful dogs!

Brittany ~ Class of 2012 North Davidson Senior Spokes Model

This year our SpokesModels have had a "test" head shot to get them started, so when Brittany comes for her complete Spokes Model session including special on location settings, she will have her braces off. I'm glad we will have "before and after" images for her, but also so you can see a super cute and even a glamorous look for those of you with braces!

If you are interested in being a Spokes Model for the following high schools: West Forsyth, Davie, Reagan or Mt Tabor, please fill out the online application by Friday, April 22 for a FREE senior portrait session.

"You Are The Art" Portrait Gallery Exhibit

This exhibit will showcase some of our best images and we’d like to include you!

Our 5th Annual Portrait Gallery Exhibit will be on display May 2-May 31, 2011 at Casanova's Coffees & Fudge located in the historic Lewisville Mill at 6275 Shallowford Rd in the heart of Lewisville. We will be publicizing this event as an art exhibit and YOU are the art! 
In order to create excitement in the community, we will have an Opening Reception on Saturday, May 7 from 10A.M. until 2 P.M. at Casanova's Coffee. There will be door prizes throughout the day, so come by and register to win (you don’t have to be present to win, but the registration will only be available at the reception.)
All you need to do is authorize us to create a portrait from your past session; then you may pick up your new portrait when the gallery exhibit is over at the end of May.  This beautiful portrait is yours for the special price of only $99 (Reg. $399) for an 11x14 portrait or $149 (Reg. $439) for a 16x20 portrait.
You will want to respond quickly as this tremendous value of up to 75% off retail is only valid if ordered by April 6, 2011.
This is a great gift idea ...or maybe just to treat yourself!  
Special Note to husbands: this is what she REALLY wants..and you don't even have to go to the store.  We'll take care of everything for you!
(Special price applies only to images that were previously ordered since 2005. Orders already in progress do not apply.) Please call 336.766.8367 or e-mail by April 6, 2011 to discuss your pose selection.

Limited Edition Spring Portrait Sessions...FREE PORTRAIT SESSIONS!

Yes, you read that right, SPRING! We could be in for another spell of cold weather, but we are looking forward to a little preview of spring weather in the coming days. As a bonus, the daffodils are back! We are offering sessions in a nearby "field of daffodils" with NO SESSION FEES for a very limited time. Call 336.766.8367 and we will reserve a time for you!

Baby Portrait Sessions ~ The beginning...

"Seek the wisdom of the ages, but look at the world through the eyes of a child."~ Ron Wild

On our "Baby's First Year" program, we portray 3 or 4 distinct stages during a time when your baby changes more than any other time in their lives.

We love to start with a newborn portrait session before the baby is 2 weeks of age, but many times our moms like to start at about 2-4 months while they are still tiny, very dependent and cuddly.

Even though those first gummy smiles are precious,  there is something magical about the look of wonderment in a baby's eyes... 

A Gift From Anne Grant Photography and Lime Lollies Children's Boutique

Lime Lollies Children's Boutique is located in the heart of Clemmons at 3570 Clemmons Rd (just up from the Post Office). They have a nice selection of heirloom clothing for special occasions such as Baptism or First Communion.

When you purchase an outfit for your child for these celebrations, Lime Lollies has made arrangements with us to offer a free portrait session, plus a bonus gift to commemorate this important time in your child's life. If you would like more info on the store, call 336.766.0509 or call us at the studio 336.766.8367 for more info on this offer.

NC Family Portraits, Baby Portraits, Senior Portraits, Pet Portraits...and More!

Just catching our breath...we've been as busy as little elves, creating portraits and some fantastic Christmas cards for some of the nicest people in NC! The more we get to know our clients, we feel so fortunate that our lives can be enriched by these special relationships.
This year has been challenging, sometimes stressful or even difficult for many families we meet, but one thing I have noticed is how those situations can draw people to what is really important. It seems that people are taking inventory of their lives more than ever... treasuring the relationships, memories and the simple joys that happen in families everyday.  It is usually not the most spectacular occasions that bring us our favorite memories of family or friends and we are lucky to get to share in a bit of that everyday...

 

 Well...I could go on and on..that's all I have time for now, but there is more to come...

Oh, Baby ... A special maternity portrait session!

At Anne Grant Photography we have been anticipating a very special gift!  Denise and husband, Ben are expecting their first child, a son, who should arrive just after Christmas.

Most of you have met Denise (our wedding photographer and portrait design consultant) on visits to the studio or when we are at events in the community...and you know how special she is to us.
We would like to invite you to drop by the studio on Sunday, November 14 anytime between 2 pm and 4 pm for a "Diaper Shower". This is a "floating" drop in event, so come by and bring a pack of diapers (any size) and/or baby wipes, or just a few encouraging words of congratulations. We love our studio family and we welcome any of you who would can come to share in the joy of this occasion.

Family Portrait Month...The Best Time To Update YOUR Family Portrait!

This October, we will participate with an elite group of photographers around the country in a very special family portrait promotion. Throughout the month, we will celebrate our 6th Annual “Family Portrait Month”. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to update your family portrait, and at the same time help to support Operation Smile, which treats children around the world who suffer with cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities.

5 Reasons Why There's No Better Time Than Family Portrait Month To Update Your Family Portrait:

1. FREE Portrait Session *          
2. FREE Bonus Gifts
3. The holidays are the perfect time to share portraits
4. Saturday and Evening Sessions available (these book up quickly, call soon!)
5. You are a part of changing a child’s life!

*There is a suggested donation of $25 payable to Operation Smile, instead of the Session Fee  ($99 Value)

Love Stories...Revealing Treasures of the Heart

Remember all those kind, loving thoughts that you don't take the time to say to your loved ones?
Let us take you on a journey that will add dimension to those expressions of love.
We have been working with Matt Hall of 201 Media Productions as our videographer to create a unique, personal production for you. Using the fusion of video, music, portrait art and words (both spoken and written) we have a wonderful new product that will illustrate those thoughts, words and feelings.
It is simply called ...Love Stories.
 
It begins with a visit to the studio so we can hear your story, learn more about who you are and what you like to do together. We will plan your production and portraits, all the while leaving a lot of room to let the story tell itself as we go to the next step...
 

During the video and portrait session we will guide you through a series of questions to help you share your feelings with your loved one, reminisce and just get lost in each other...you'll forget we are even there!

  
After you have had that time together, you will find yourself appreciating that person for who they really are... at that very moment. So that is the perfect time to write a love letter to the other person with words that come from that special moment in time where you are most connected.
 

At your portrait presentation, you will see a video with moving and still imagery, set to music. You will read what the other person wrote in their love letter to you and see a beautiful art piece with a blend of your sensitive, emotional images.
This is not only for couples, but could be for a parent and children, a grown man with his beloved grandfather,  a young woman and her mother right before she gets married...there are so many love stories..we look forward to hearing yours!
Call 336.766.8367 or email to arrange for an appointment to discuss the many possibilities and to take advantage of our Introductory Offer.

Thanks To YOUR Vote, We are #1!

We nailed it!
What a thrill to see that once again, we were voted as Winston-Salem Journal Reader's Choice
Best Photographer for 2010-2011.
Seriously, it means a lot that you took the time to give us a "thumbs up" to express your confidence in our studio and what we have to offer.
Since there was no interview for the write up on our studio, it apparently came from the writer's impression of our website. I was especially pleased that it mentioned my love for the business extends to our valued employees, because the integrated effort of the Team at AGP is  truly what makes the portrait experience as they described... "positive, fun and memorable."
But only with the BEST clients and friends can we even be considered for the BEST Photographer and we thank you for that!

Survey Says...Free Gift for your Opinion!

We would like to invite you to participate in a quick survey to determine your interest in a new product line we are considering ... simple, fun and affordable portraits with quick sessions for the busy family.

When we sent this survey to about 800 people just this week, were we ever surprised at the excellent response and, more importantly, the detailed answers we received. Thanks to all who have responded so far, we have learned a LOT about what people want (and don't want) in their portrait photography!

We read descriptions of their good & bad portrait experiences and even suggestions for future promotions...so if you would like to be heard, we are listening!

Now, we have earned our reputation by offering the finest portraits available with a multi-faceted portrait experience. This includes a portrait design consultation, a session with multiple settings/clothing changes/groupings of subjects and a multi-media presentation of the images on a large projection screen. When we are creating wall portraits and custom designer portraits for our clients home decor, we have found that each element of this process is what they expect to give them the most choices and achieve the best results.

This style of photography will continue to be what "defines" Anne Grant Photography.

One thing that we picked up on from the survey is how much people LOVE the portraits we have done for them! So please note that this concept is in addition to the extensive, detailed service we have always offered.  Thank you for your encouragement..we are feeling the love!
(We know you are busy, but we value your opinion, so we will give you FREE gift from us if you take just a few minutes to complete this survey!) 

Take The Survey

We value your opinion and truly care about how we can meet your needs...Let us hear from YOU!

Anne Grant ~ Certified Professional Photographer

Anne Grant ~ The Village Photographer, now also known as Anne Grant ~ Certified Professional Photographer, is giving you yet another reason why you will be glad you chose our studio for your photography!
The art of photography is what has pretty much defined my career and a good bit of my life for almost two decades, but our industry is very different than when I first started. There are more photographers than ever, all at vastly different levels of expertise.
 
When it comes to creating your family's photographic history, I know you want all the reassurance possible when you choose your photographer.
You want to feel confident you have made the right decision when you are overwhelmed with choices.Often times I hear people say that it is hard to know who to trust for any type of services they may need. Even though our studio has always had a 100% guarantee that you will be thrilled with your portraits, it is a well known fact that the public recognizes certification as a sign that one is an authority in their field.
 

From the Professional Photographic Certification Commission website  
"A Certified Professional Photographer designation is awarded by Professional Photographers of America (PPA) to those who pass a comprehensive written exam to measure technical capability, successfully submit a body of work to a panel of judges for review and approval, and abide by a professional code of ethics. This offers you that assurance, not just of quality, but of technical skill and artistic expertise."
  
This process was no easy task!
But when I learned that only 7% of all the members of PPA earn the Professional Photographic Certification and that I am one of only 3 Certified Professional Photographers in Forsyth County, it gives me a sense of pride to be among those who set themselves apart from the masses so I can offer more to my clients.