Claire Ryser & Visionaire Studios Photography

BIG NEWS! NEW BLOG!

2009-12-16T15:28:00.000-08:00

What's that? YES. YES IT IS TRUE. I have a new blog and it is amazing! Check out the all new, ever fabulous amazingness that is my brand new blog site: claireryserblog.com

YAY!
I will still keep this old one here for posterity sake, but check claireryserblog.com for the latest and greatest!!!

Trey & Annie: Engagement Photos

2009-08-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

I was mingling and talking to friends when I saw Trey and Annie out of the corner of my eye standing there a few feet away staring at me with huge smiles and big eyes. I KNEW something was up!

Because I'm officially a nerd, I accidentally called Annie, "Annie Ammons" (Ammons is Trey's last name, not Annie's) and then realized that I had made a mistake. Annie laughed and said "Well, that's what we wanted to talk to you about! We're going to get married!" I think my next few sentences came out in squeals to high-pitch for anyone to understand, but I'm sure I said something like, "yay! omg!"

ANYWAYS! Trey and Annie's story is pretty much adorable. Have you ever seen The Princess Bride? Trey was in charge of mowing and maintaining the never ending country acres where Annie lived during the summers. More and more she noticed he would come by, VERY often. Trey didn't mind because he got to see Annie. Eventually, Annie realized that every time Trey said, "as you wish", he was really saying, "I love you!" (OK!!! That's from the movie! But it's pretty much true!)

They fell in love and the rest is history! They asked me to take their engagement photos at the place where they fell in love! We also went to Baker University where they both went to school, and a nearby airport [of sorts!]. Their wedding is September 5th and I'm so excited to be their wedding photographer!

Here are some of my favorites:

I love this one because of Annie's laugh. This photo just makes me smile!
And it is always fun when my couples decide to have their pets come along for the engagement photos!

We are SO in Kansas! Something about being out in the country air with nothing but fields and dirt roads is romantic to me :) What a perfect place to fall in love.

Then we headed out to Baker University. Are they adorable or what?

Trey was a little nervous about taking photos. He thought he was going to hate it. It turns out taking engagement photos can be fun! ;)

Annie is GORGEOUS!

I love love!

The sun began to set and we managed another outfit change and headed to the local airport! Hello airplane!

As the sun went down and out of sight, I had to get a few more shots of them on this hay bale! Trey and Annie are troopers! Getting onto this giant thing was kinda tricky!
I love this!!!

I love these next two of them. Trey and Annie are perfect for each other and I'm lucky to have them in my life! You guys are amazing.

Trey loves Annie. A whole lot. And she loves him back! I love my job :)
How sweet are they?

Thanks a million Trey and Annie for allowing me to capture your love for each other and tell your story through these engagement photos! I'm so excited that I'll also be your wedding photographer in just a few days! XOXO - Claire

Natalie & Ryan: Engagement Photos in Lee's Summit, MO

2009-08-20T11:09:00.000-07:00

Ryan might say something like... "we go together like her eye socket fits perfectly onto my cheekbone". And I would have to agree :)... even if YOU don't get it, it makes perfect sense to me!

Natalie and Ryan are pretty much... adorable. If I had to sum them up in one word! But I don't, so I will say they are FABULOUSLY adorable! Because I love that word and I add it to everything!

I don't know how we got ANY photos taken at all because Natalie and I TALKED through the whole shoot! Ryan and Natalie, thanks for be so amazing, friendly and welcoming! I love your photos! Check'n 'em out!.......

Ryan loves Natalie a whole lot. See, Fabulously adorable, right?

WARNING! Hotttt photo below, ok.

OK. We had the BEST light the night of their engagement session. In this unpredictable month of August, I'm sooo thankful for you Mr. Sunshine! This is one of my most favorite [SET OF] photos! So romantic!

Nothing like kissing the love of your life in the sunset in a field of wild flowers. (Or Smelling like bug spray and having sticky bur things all over you in itchy grass while your sweating. But the "field of flowers" just sounds better, you know?) AND THIS PHOTO IS HOT! I love it!

Oh, hello anthropology ad!

Love.

"relax babe, I've got you!" AW! That pretty much sums up Ryan.

UGH! How are you guys so ridiculously good looking?! And don't you just love Natalie's dress and boots combo?! AYKM?

love!

Natalie and Ryan had just a couple requests. One was that we get some shots of them work'n it out in their ku tees! If you're not a KU fan, just suck it up for a few minutes ok?

Their other request was some laying-down-in-the-grass shots! Which I love. AND, MY one request was that they have to make faces at each other! win-win! (ok, we got some not-silly face ones too, but these next 2 shots made me smile!)

Thanks a billion Natalie & Ryan! I'm super excited for your wedding this fall!!! Woo! You guys are so sweet... thanks for reminding me again why I LOVE my job so much! xoxo Claire

Carey & Richie: The Wedding

2009-08-12T08:46:00.000-07:00

Carey is the kind of woman who knows what she wants.
And she also knows how to GET what she wants. And Richie is the guy for her! Carey and Richie had been together for 18 years before he FINALLY proposed!

"She's a tomboy at heart", the mother of the bride kept saying.
But on this day, you would NEVER know it. Carey was radiant, feminine, and FIERCE!
Richie couldn't take his eyes... hands.... off her all day! Carey and Richie's wedding day was just how they wanted it to be: relaxed, fun, rowdy, crazy, memorable and full of love! This was one day that NOTHING could spoil and I was so lucky to have gotten to be a part of it! Thank you Carey and Richie for being so AWESOME, full of love and for welcoming m into your lives on your special day!

Flowers: Hy-Vee
Reception: Grand Ballroom, Bartle Hall
Dress: Emily Hart Bridal ...who carry my personal favorite designers, Bonny and La Sposa! Great bridal shop!
Planner: Tara with All About You Event ...Tara was GREAT and every detail was PERFECT! I love having another professional around who understands and manages the flow of the day! THANKS TARA!!!
DJ: Jimmy Vogel with Complete Music kept the dance floor moving! He was so easy to work with, great energy, and even got down on the floor with the crowd to make sure everyone was having a good time!
Video: Complete Video (same company as the DJ!)

Here are some of my faves!

The girls got ready in their suite at The President

Her bouquet was so beautiful and smelled so good that Larissa had to stop me from eating it! (OK, not in real life, I promise I would never eat the brides bouquet!)

Yes. 2 shots of the bouquet.

Her dress was a couture dropped-waist/mermaid style gown with so many unique details it would need it's own blog post dedicated only to it's amazingness!

Carey, you are so beautiful! What a stunning bride!

Love her accessories :)... and I had to squeeze one more detail shot of the dress too!

The wedding version of being born! And almost as much work! (Ok... obviously, I've never had kids) I love the expression of the bridesmaid on the far left!

Me loves shoes :)

We all made it to the ceremony in one piece...

Aww...

The bride and groom at the altar! (I think I heard someone say, "last chance, Richie!" from the crowd!...

Married! Love Carey's expression! They both look so happy!!!

Due to rain, extreme heat, and generally YUCK weather, we decided to do photos in the Ballroom at Union Station. Usually NOT going outside isn't really an option, but we had great natural light in here and it wasn't crowded at all! So it worked out perfectly!

I love the classy colors of mocha and champagne... any color that sounds good enough to eat/drink is good to me! You guys are so FABULOUS. (I personally think Carey rented models to be her bridesmaids!)

Gorgeous :)

Bride and groom!

I'll end with a few reception details... This reception was off the hook with great color, professional lighting, a great layout and decor!
I'm going to find out who the cake designer is, and when I do, I'll post it on here! I love how the base looks like glowing ice!

Carey and Tara used a LED light to uplight the centerpieces! What a dramatic effect..
The centerpieces also acted as ambient warm light for the reception.

Carey and Richie, you guys seriously rock! Your day was sooo much fun... and crazy!
Thanks a million trillion for allowing me to join you guys on your wedding day!
xoxo

Claire

Becca & Jer: NEW SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT! :::ROCK THE DRESS:::

2009-08-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

I'm inspired by love, fashion, Disney fairy tales... What can I say? I'm 100% girly. I've given up trying to seem tough or cool, especially because I usually end up looking like an idiot the split-second after I make a dire attempt at coolness! We're just not meant to be :) BUT... I can totally pull of ditsy-fairy-tale-princes! Just ask my husband.

I remember seeing this Ralph Lauren Romance ad when I was about 20 or 21 and there was just something about it that I loved! Maybe it was the white horse... or the rolling countryside. Whatever it was, I've ALWAYS wanted to... do it my way!

This brings us to...
The first ever, Rock The Dress session, featuring Becca and Jer!
We've all heard of Trash The Dress, a session where the bride jumps into a river/pond/fountain, or splashes paint all over herself... or SOMETHING along those lines. They are fun and capture AMAZING images! But it's not for everyone. Some brides cringe at the thought of "trashing" their $3,000.00+ gown. And you know, I guess I don't blame them!

So, as an alternative to trashing, here's to ROCKING. Rock The Dress sessions are a chance to WORK IT OUT in your fabulous gown and get some fashion-forward images in a non-destructive environment! All sessions are at least two hours long and include professional makeup artistry and a custom album. Email me for package rates! claire@visionairestudios.com.

I have MANY amazing, fabulous and resourceful people to thank for helping me ROCK this session!

Rising Star Ranch for their world-traveling, award-winning stallion, Kool Star and other horses who also made their debut! Also for allowing me the use of their GORGEOUS grounds and fields for the location!

Aubrey at Salon De Crist for veil and hair, and Jill Kinsey, also with Salon De Crist for an AMAZING job on Becca's makeup and lashes! Becca totally ROCKED her

Are you ready for this? Me too :)

Thank you Becca and Jer... You are both amazing and I'm so lucky to have had the chance to work with you guys! Also, thanks to SGM/Absurd Media video editing guru, David Belich for capturing all my glorious dork-ness in HD, Larissa for feeding the horses and being an extremely helpful assistant,The Bridal Mansion in KC for being AMAZING, and Paul my awesome husband for bringing his Flip and tagging along for moral support! I had a BLAST with all of you!

XOXO

Claire

Photography FAQ & A

2009-07-14T17:09:00.000-07:00

It was my very first time shooting a wedding. Ever.
It was my very first time using a DSLR Camera. EVER. Aperture WHAT? Shutter Speed... WHAT?!

I woke up at 6am that morning (yes, the morning of the wedding) to read the user manual that came with my Canon Rebel Xt. I only had 2 batteries, 2 4GB CF Cards... and worst of all, only the lens that CAME WITH the camera... (known as the "kit lens"); A terribly slow, soft, grainy, vignetting, hunk of junk! OK, OK, maybe I'm being a little harsh. It's fine for shooting outdoors in perfect light if you don't really need the image to be TOTALLY in focus! (Internet, I'm not kidding you)

To those of you who are NOT professional photographers, this may sound fabulous. But in the reality of a professional photographer, this is pretty much a recipe for disaster!

Fortunately, I made it through the day. I had to alternate uploading my RAW images from my CF card to my laptop while shooting with the other. Again, I'm NOT kidding you.

MIRACULOUSLY the photos turned out pretty good! Needless to say, as much as the bride still loves those photos today... my style, "quality" and methods have changed drastically! If you looked at the set of wedding images from that day... to the look I achieve as of today, you may not believe the same person took those photos :)

And I don't plan in being at the same level two years from now as I am today! I'm always a student learning, being teachable and looking for excellence in all that I do. I don't claim to be the best photographer.. or know everything... or anything of the sort! I just do what I do and love to share with others what I've learned works for me in the process. So if I help someone today with what I have to share, GREAT. If you totally think I'm a dumb dumb and that what I have to say is ancient history and totally unhelpful to you... GREAT...At least one of us has it all figured out (not me)! LOL!

Believe it or not, I get tons of emails from photographers all over the country asking for help, advice, what shoes to wear to a wedding... you name it! It's crazy. My inbox just keeps piling up with them! I've been super good about responding back, but I think maybe it's time to start my very own archive of FAQ's and A's!

(I know, did it really take me like 7 paragraphs to get to this part?! YES, just be glad I'm TYPING and not talking. I would only be about 30% of the way there!) Tina wrote in with a question similar to many that I get asked!

FAQ 1:

Hi Claire,

I know this may seem really random, but I am an amateur photographer from southern Indiana and I stumbled across your website. I love your work; it is so creative and inspiring and I just read your bio to find that we are the same age! I also decided that I wanted to do professional photography a year ago in May, but no matter how much I practice my work looks nothing like the quality of yours. So I was wondering how you do it?? Do you do a lot of editing or solely rely on your camera? I appreciate any advice you may have!

Sincerely,
Tina W.

First of all... THANK YOU for the complements!!!! Second of all. I felt the same way when I was just "starting out" too. Every photography blog I looked at had AMAZING photos that I could BARELY dream about at night! I wanted my work to look like and be like... so many other photographer's images. The first step is to find out what YOU LOVE to shoot. And shoot it. Do it for free or super cheap.. offer them a disc of the images and just keep practicing... raise the rates as demand for your work increases.

To answer some technical questions, investing in PRIME lenses was the best thing that ever happened to me! This website was also one of my best friends for helping me understand the difference too:The Digital Picture. I currently use and am the most familiar with Canon, but I've used Nikon before too... and I love BOTH for many reasons! Prime lenses have a fixed focal length (you can't zoom) but can stop down (make the aperture number go down / more open to let more light in) to as low as 1.2, which is GREAT for low light and when you want that buttery/ blurry background! You can even just start with the 50 mm 1.8 II for as low as $90. Try amazon! The 50mm 1.4 is less than $400 now and it has been sooo good to me!

Prime lenses are TACK SHARP, great for low light, and have nice fall off/blur/bokeh/buttery background. Hope that helps! I have a couple different lengths of Prime lenses and I LOVE THEM! The difference between prime lenses and even a decent zoom lens is NIGHT AND DAY! And as much as the camera body is important, the LENS is MORE important. INVEST IN GOOD QUALITY LENSES. Canon's 85mm and 50mm prime lenses are AMAZING and it totally changed the way I shoot and interact with my clients. Since you can't zoom in and out, it gets you moving around and interacting so much more! So that's my #1 piece of "quality" advice.

#2, focus, focus, focus! Always focus on the eyes. Make sure there aren't shadows! NAIL exposure on people's faces and force yourself to shoot in MANUAL mode so you're the one in control of the final image. If you shoot in RAW, (which I do) you'll be able to tweak the exposure and other elements in post processing (which I do... more so in the beginning!!!) but try your best to nail the exposure IN CAMERA, this eliminates tons of "post processing"

#3. In post processing, I edit all images on my blog, website, album images, final print images and any other type of product. The only images I don't retouch a bit are proofs in the gallery and on proof discs. I use Kevin Kubota's production tools, and Total Rad Actions, both sets. I don't over do it and I keep actions to a minimum. It's just what I do, but you may want to add more or less depending on YOUR style! Every photo on my blog is sharpened with "Magic Sharp" from the Kevin Kubota Production Set OR "A Better Web Sharpen" from TRA's Revenge. I like crisp photos, but you may not :) Up to you! I also use various tools such as the patch tool, dodge and burn in Adobe Photoshop. I haven't had time to make my own tutorial video... but why reinvent the wheel!? The [B] School has many great tutorials... Here's one on using the patch tool! I use the patch tool when editing 99% of my images!

Here's a quick example of a before and after image using the patch tool and other actions:

Before: Mallory is beautiful and really NEEDS no retouching! This image is straight out of the camera using a Canon 30D and the 50mm 1.4 lens at ISO 200, Shutter 200, Fstop 1.8:

After...

For the edit that I've shown you,

TRA (Revenge) actions: "Punch Out" at 9%, Claireify at 6%, Lux Soft at 25%
TRA actions: Antique Tone at 42%, Yin/Yang (I USE THIS IN MOST IMAGES to darken out parts of the background and brighten up what I want attention to go to.. such as face, eyes etc.)
KK's production actions: Lighten via Screen 1/3 Stop, Magic Sharp (Last step before saving!)

I used the dodge and burn tool to brighten her eyes a little and also the patch tool under the eyes etc.
This is the edited image (I will usually tone down the actions a bit more than this and often don't use near as many, but I left them a teeny bit more evident than usual so you could see more of a difference.. you can of course use them how YOU want!)

I hope this helps! Thanks Tina for writing in!!!

Katie & Marcus: Engaged! YAY!

2009-07-06T15:20:00.000-07:00

She loves life... And Marcus.
And Marcus lives to love her back.

Katie sipped her glass of Pina Colada in one hand and held up necklace options with the other as she flipped through outfits laid out on the bed. I LOVE bright colors! As she held up a hot pink option... She's my kind of girl :) She had already organized Marcus's outfits and had everything in order and ready to go for our shoot! She's a detail girl... That's just how she rolls! Love it!

Marcus is calm, cool and collected to a fault! I think I caught him silently laughing at us as Katie and I discussed details at a mile-per-minute. He was so sweet and was up for ANYTHING!

I drove through storms and tornadic activity to get to these two and to also see the fabulous location for their August wedding at a winery! (it was quite an evening, but that's totally another story!)

Anyways, Katie and Marcus are awesome... I had so much fun with you guys and I KNOW your wedding is going to be AMAZING!

Here are just a few of my favorites from our session!

Her smile is to die for! And look how much he loves her... love it!

Katie, you are so beautiful! And I loved Marcus's expression in this one too :)

*sigh* love:

They are adorable!

Katie had this big red barn in mind for some of her photos! I'm so like, "Yes, red barn, you can sooo be in our engagement pictures! You are big and red! Work it out, red barn!" (OK, I'm totally a nerd!, but I love how these photos turned out!)

Oh Em Gee, are they super cute or WHAT??? One of my faves!

Beautiful! They look good together :)

GORGEOUS KATIE. You will have to give me this look again when you're in your wedding dress too, ok?! "Hi, I'm Katie, and I'm hottt!" Fierce. Love it!

You're wedding is going to ROCK! Can't wait!!!! Thanks for being so sweet and for taking care good of this city girl while I was out in the country! It was definitely an experience I will love and remember forever! You are both AMAZING and I love your love for each other!

XOXO!!!

Claire

Krystle & Gabe: Engaged!

2009-06-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

It all started when Gabe needed a new cell phone. Little did he know that he would soon meet the gorgeous, fun, stylish Krystle and future love of his life (she is also an expert in all things "cell phone"!) when he walked into the store.

They couldn't agree on how many times Gabe came in to talk to Krystle about all the many attributes of cell phones and options, but I heard 6.. 8 .. maybe 10 times. Let's just say a few trips more than what's necessary to discuss the perfect cell phone!

Krystle didn't even have to ask Gabe for his number... she already had it :) And after a few text message back and forth they decided to meet (and probably talk about ANYTHING BESIDES phones!) and the rest is history!

Krystle loves Gabe... and Gabe takes such good care of her! Her smiling and stunning eyes would melt the hardest heart! I love how these two are so content, comfortable and confident in their love for each other!

Here are a few of my favorites from their engagement photos in Lee's Summit, Missouri:

UM. GORGEOUS! Krystle, please share your eyes with me! LOL! She's hot, huh!

LOVE THEM.

She has the best smile! No wonder Gabe loves her so much ;)

How are you guys so cute? Love these outfits Krystle picked out!

Gabe adores her, it's pretty much obvious! Love this one!

LOVE. One of my faves!

Quick story: It rained so hard the night before our session that we had to walk in deep deep mud, puddles and 4-foot tall grass to get to where we wanted to go! I'm so proud of you guys for being such troopers! Krystle was even in heels! I LOVE MY CLIENTS... are they fabulous or WHAT? Don't be jealous.

Love these colors! The light was quickly fading so this was shot pretty much wide open with my prime 50mm 1.4 @ISO 1000, fstop: 1.4, shutter: 1/80.

Grass taller than me!

AND... the reason I'm posting this shot... is because two other friends wanted to get in on the shoot! Can you see what I'm talking about?

I'm super lucky to be Krystle and Gabe's photographer for their wedding at Hawthorne House on April 10th, 2010! I can hardly wait!

Krystle and Gabe, thank you for being so fabulous! You are beautiful people, inside and out. We had quite an adventure and if our time together during your session is in any way a representation of how your life together will be... Expect many more fun adventures full of love and happiness! Gabe, you take such good care of Krystle and she loves you so much. I'm blessed to have you as my clients!

xoxo

Claire

Laura and Dan: Married!

2009-06-24T21:41:00.000-07:00

Laura and Dan are the kind of people that have their own language... their own special way of looking at each other... yet they also know how to open their arms and let the whole world share their happiness! Laura is bubbly like NO OTHER. Not KIDDING! Her sweet sing-song voice filled the air the entire day as she happily commented on each and every detail, making sure everything was in order!

Dan is the MAN! (OK, I TOTALLY had to say that... it RHYMES!, don't make fun) But he is. The man with love so great that he would lay down his life for his friend, his beautiful bride, Laura. He kinda just rocks like that!

The day was rainy and overcast, but my "Claire Ryser Brides" don't let a little rain get in the way of hot pictures!!!! HOLLA! We totally worked it out, rain or shine (not much shine this day... but the smiles on Dan and Laura's face TOTALLY made up for that 100%)

Dan and Laura, thank you x's a million billion trillion for trusting me and welcoming me into your special day! I'm thrilled with your pictures and I hope you love them as much as I do! I KNOW you're probably checking this blog every hour to see your sneak peek.... So I'll quit typing and get to the good stuff! LOL.... HOT PICTURES BELOW! WARNING!:

This was Laura's one request... A shot of the dress AND Dan's suit hanging next to it! LOVE IT!

Back in the "getting ready room", the flower girl was checking her hot self out! HA! I think she stood there for a good 30 seconds! (For those if you that aren't familiar with the antics of adorable flower girls on the day of a wedding, that's kind of a long time for ANY flower girl to be still or stay in one spot!)

Father and daughter... A million words in this picture :)

Dan and Laura wanted to see each other before the ceremony (I LOVE it!) and share a special moment alone together... hugging, praying and talking. I love how close he holds her :)

UM. YAH. Laura is stunningly beautiful... no question there!

Love these colors! Who says a cloudy day can't be bright? No worries here. BEAUTIFUL.

Gotta love these girls a whole lot!

Laura, you look so gorgeous!!!!

A very beautiful and bright bouquet filled red, orange, yellow, green, white and pink was the only way to go for a girl like Laura! LOVE your style chica!

Since Dan and Laura had their first look before the ceremony, it left us so much more time photo photos! I LOVE this one of them!

As Larissa and I were running down a path ahead of Dan and Laura, we looked back and grabbed this shot! So cute!

He loves you Laura!

Another fave!

At the ceremony, the "judges" ... ahem, groomsmen, had a surprise for Dan and Laura after their first kiss as husband and wife! Those are some pretty good scores! (Dan said he needed to keep practicing throughout the rest of the wedding day. We don't mind!)

The garden style cake with a custom flower topper and green trimming! Love it!

OMG, the getaway car! HA!

MARRIED! Whoever started the tradition of throwing things at the bride and groom as they run as fast as they can to leave their wedding... It's times like this I want to say, THANK YOU.

Dan and Laura. You rock. Your wedding day was so happy and filled with laughs, tears,... and hotness! Thank you again for opening your hearts and lives to me... your family was equally as welcoming and I'm so privileged to have been your photographer! I wish you the best as you start your new lives together in Champaign, Illinois (My brother was born there and I lived just a few miles from there from the ages of 2-8! Small world!). MUCH LOVE! We'll stay in touch :)

xoxo
Claire

Autum & Jason: Engagement Photos in Lee's Summit, MO

2009-06-23T09:44:00.000-07:00

Jason and Autum share a love that is unconditional, passionate, quiet, fun, free and unfailing. And I was sooo excited when she asked me to be her wedding photographer! DONE AND DONE! When we were talking about her engagement session, she asked if it would be OK to bring along her boys. UM. YEEESSSS! Please and THANK YOU, CHICA! This family has sooo much love! I totally fit in with the boys and felt right at home singing about Captain Underpants and exploring "Tokyo"!

Here are some of my faves from the session...

The best big brother ever :)

After a bit, the boys went to have more fabulous times with Grandma... as much as I KNOW they wanted to hang out with me because I'm sooooo cooooool. We all stayed behind for a while longer to get some of this hottnesss...

I love love!

This was riiiigggt after he had a grass fight and he tackled her to the ground. It makes me smile :)

Autum and Jason, I totally can't wait for your awesome wedding later this summer!!! It's going to fabulicious! Thank you for being so trusting and willing to do whatever at your engagement session! You guys totally rock :) xoxo, Claire

Sallee Gaelle & Drew Jack: Sneak Peek!

2009-06-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

Saturday's wedding was amazing, beautiful, quirky, fun, original, unique, thoughtful, sentimental, tearful, joyful, powerful, and memorable. A full blog to come! Here's just a quick sneak peek...

yummy :)

PLAYShop with Heather Cole!

2009-06-16T13:01:00.000-07:00

When I got to my computer this morning, the first thing I check was Heather's blog. Internet, I jumped up and down, scaring my cat to death, and smiled the hugest smile in the whole wide world! Why? Because Paul and I were chosen to be the models for her fabulous PLAYShop! I was a little nervous, but Heather is so awesome at creating an experience that's relaxing and so full of love :) Check out my awesome pic'chas by the fabulous Heather Cole

Go to her blog for more, internet!

THANK YOU HEATHER! I had such a great time and I will never forget it!

Christin & Seth: The Wedding!

2009-06-16T12:17:00.000-07:00

I first met Christin at Nicky & Kit's wedding! Christin was engaged and had been watching me work and then saw some of the sneak peek photos on Nicky & Kit's slideshow at their reception. Nicky introduced me to this beautiful blond and her handsome partner in crime and the rest is history!

Christin is playful, athletic, fearless, and beautiful! Seth adores her with every last molecule in his being! Seriously, he couldn't take his eyes of Christin the whole day... He's everything she needs and they're perfect for eachother!

Thanks a million Christin for allowing me to become a part of your group and blend in with your friends and family! Your wedding day experience was so happy and I'm lucky to have been able to be your photographer! I'll never forget it :)

Here are some of my FAVES!

Love her smile...

Um... Gorgeous, yes? YES.

EYES! You melt me, Christin! OMG...

We headed over to a near by park for a few pre-ceremony shots. Check out the ladies! Hottttt with lots of t's!!!

So cute!!! I love this shot...

Seth knows exactly what to say to get her to make this face! LOVE IT!

Married!!! How happy do they look?!

Christin told us about this field... I'm so glad she did, yes I AM.

HOT.

I think I say this at every wedding, but seriously, I don't think I've laughed as much as at this one! I have NO idea what was so funny ALL THE TIME. Love this group shot.

And lastly... my most fave of the day... Gotta love their smiles and in-love-ness!

Christin and Seth, your fabulousness rock my socks off! I love how you guys love each other! Thanks again for everything! xoxo! -Claire

Katie & Blake: Love in Kansas City

2009-05-29T10:39:00.000-07:00

I love engagement photos! And Katie and Blake's session was nothing short of FABULOUS.
Katie and Blake are sophisticated, quirky, fun-loving, beautiful... and so in love with each other. It's pretty much the most obvious thing EVER. Both of them are super geniuses...Blake is studying law at KU and if there's a formula for finding your perfect match, Katie's got it memorized with the patent pending. Trust me.

The Plaza shops and streets are like a second home to them and are full of memories of fun times and first dates, so they decided it would be the best place to take their engagement photos!

Here's a peek at some of my favorites from their day!

I love this one! Katie, you are gorgeous!

Katie rocked this LBD! So vintage and chic!

LOVE IT!

Awww... they are so in love. And adorable.

After spending time around the iconic Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, we headed to yet another well known and loved place in the heart of Kansas City... The Liberty Memorial. It overlooks our simple and historical skyline... You can even see the Western Auto symbol to the right...
Quick fact: Western Auto was started in 1909 in Kansas City, Missouri, by George Pepperdine, who later founded Pepperdine University.

Shoes say so much about a person! I love their combo :)

So sweet... Blake loves Katie A LOT.

As the sun set over Kansas City, I couldn't be more happy for Katie and Blake... Two people who know they've found the person they want to be with at the end of each day for the rest of their lives...

Thank you both so much for deciding to do an engagement session! What a good idea ;)
I can't wait for the wedding to come! Check back in August internet people for a peek of their wedding photos!

Love,

Claire

Shanon & Tyler: Engagement Photos in Kansas City | My Best Friend's Wedding

2009-05-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

Chapter 1:
It's hard to know where to begin as I'm writing this post. Really hard. If Shannon, Emily (my twin sister) and I were all together right now, we'd probably all start singing, "Let's start at the very beginning, a very good place to start. When you read you begin with ABC...." (You know, from The Sound of Music!?)OH. And we would do it in three-part harmony too.. And add key change just for show.

You see, there are friends. Then there is Shannon. They type of friend you're lucky to have, even if it's just for a day out of a lifetime.

It seems like just yesterday we were like, 13... using Sun-In and laying out in her driveway and talking about boys -only to be interrupted and shocked my a blast of cold water from our brothers water guns. We've pretty much been through it all together. The three of us. We've been through hard times, fun times... seen a lot of things and been a part of life-changing moments. We've done everything little girls dream of... INCLUDING forming a "girl" band (with our brothers! Sorry Aaron and Rob!)...Oh and hey, all of our shows from the first show on had like, over 100 people turn out, so don't judge! Together, we have definitely lived exciting, adventurous, deep and meaningful lives thus far... filled with moments worth memorizing, and many memories to come :)

Chapter 2:

The days of Sun-In, carefree summers, band practices, and week long slumber parties may have come to an end... but when I first saw Shannon happy and in love with her perfect match, Tyler, the man of her dreams, somehow that look in their eyes let me know that the best is still to come.

Tyler will be graduating with his Masters this winter and will move to the Kansas City area from Illinois to be with the one he loves (AND HANG OUT WITH HER AMAZING BEST FRIENDS, OF COURSE!) and they'll be getting married December 12th, 2009!

And Tyler IS the perfect match for my best friend. Trust me, I would know, right?
Well. Just check out some of my favorite shots from their engagement session... They pretty much say it all.

Shannon has always been adorably fashionable and beautiful. Always. I love this one of them. Maybe it's the way Tyler looks at her. AWWWW!

Um, so I usually don't do a whole lot of harsh light stuff. But I have to say, I think they totally worked the light on this one. Love it.

Quick fact: Tyler was Shannon's very first slow dance EVER due to many factors including, but not limited to, her limo breaking down on the strip in Las Vegas on prom night! Tyler, you are one lucky guy!

MAGAZINE WORTHY HOTTT. Yes, you guys look awesome. Everyone is jealous. Check AND Done.

I don't know how guys do it, but they can always think of something to say to make us girls laugh. Are they adorable together or WHAT?

Hello vintage truck! How are you? Would you like to be in our awesome picture?

Woo Woo! I love how her ring hand and finger is facing forward for this shot! HA! I think it's pretty much a given that when a girl get's engaged, just know that she's got every right to walk around in the "Ring on It!" position. Thank you!

You know, every relationship has its flaws. Shannon, our flaw was that our feet are like, 3 million sizes away from being the same shoe size (OK, so she's like, a 6 and I'm totally a humongous 8.5-9... but it might as well be 3 million sizes apart!). Don't blame me for being upset. She always has the cutest shoes that I'll never be able to borrow! Seeeeeee!

After hanging out in the West Bottoms, we headed out to a more quaint setting in Lee's Summit. I love their outfits! (again, boots that I'll never be able to borrow)

One of my most favorites...

LOVE THIS ONE TOO! I started to tear up right after this and totally almost lost it! But I seriously recovered. We're practically sisters AND.... I'm a bridesmaid, so give me a break, ok?

Shannon and Tyler are such a beautiful couple, inside and out, and it just makes me so so happy to know that they finally found eachother. Love is an amazing thing :)

Shannon and Tyler, I'm so thankful to have you as friends for life! Looking at where we've all come from, it's a miracle that we even know each other. I know God brought you two together and I'm so blessed to be able to know you both. I love you and I'm sooo sooo sooo thrilled that I am going to be a bridesmaid in your rocking wedding party!!! AHHHH!!! I'm lucky to have shared so many moments worth memorizing with you... and I know the best is still to come.

Love,
Claire

Vinesha: Blue Springs Senior Photography

2009-05-06T09:40:00.000-07:00

Vanisha is spunky and full of love. And she's model-gorgeous. And I have to admit I was a little bit jealous of her cuteness. LOL!

I first met Vanisha at Nhan's senior photo session... It's a funny story actually!

While shooting Nhan, I heard a car pull over and saw someone get out of it and start walking towards me. My first thought: Oh great, someone called security on you and you're getting kicked out of this area for taking pictures... Which really for all the non-photographer people out there, happens pretty much every other time it seems like!

Anyways. Out of the corner of my eye I see this cute adorable teenage girl and I was like... OK, she is NOT a security guard! I finally stopped pretending I didn't see her (remember, I thought she was going to kick me out! She couldn't stop me from shooting photos if I didn't SEE her, right?) She explained in the sweetest voice that she needed to get her senior photos done and saw me shooting... could you be my photographer?

I was all, HECK YES! And that's how it's DONE!

I need to shoot out on busy streets more often I guess.
Thanks a million trillion billion Vinesha for being brave and coming up to a complete stranger on a busy street! You are awesome and I'm glad we could meet and become friends! Congrats Class of 2009!

Here's some of my favorites:

Girl, you are fierce and cute all at the same time! HOW?

Vinesha had all her details WORKED OUT! From her jewelry down to her shoes... she even did a quick eyeshadow change! Go girl!

This shot is SOOOO her... Carefree, spirited, spunky and happy!

One of the guys at the marina let us get on one of the $500,000 boats! And much to my dismay, he wouldn't let us take it out on the water. (duh, I guess!) But check this out! IS she cute or WHAT? Cute.

Love this!

BAM! Vanisha is in the house!

Thanks girl! I had a great time with you... You totally give the best hugs EVER and I love your attitude! You rock!

xoxo

Claire

Nhan: Blue Springs Class of 2009 - Senior photos in Lee's Summit

2009-04-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

What can I say... Nhan is so much cooler than I am! And I think these photos speak for themselves!

We did his senior photo session around the Longview Farms area in Lee's Summit, Missouri. Check it out...

Abbey: High School Senior Photos - Blue Springs, MO

2009-04-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

I met Abbey last year when I was her sister's wedding photographer!

Abbey, you are gorgeous, cute, funny, smart and all of the above!!! I had a blast with you out at the lake and you seriously WORKED IT OUT GIRL!!! It isn't every day you have your picture taken by a professional and Abbey came super prepared with the most adorable outfits! I loved her bright colors!

ANNNNYYYWAYS. Y'all just wanna see the photos, I KNOW, so I'll shut up! LOL

Cute and she knows it...

Supermodel!

Awww! so pretty! Do these colors rock or WHAT?

There is something about this photo that just makes me want to drink lemonade... Now I'm so thirsty for it... I wonder if Paul will go get me some? But seeeeriously, I love this shot. She totally owns it!

Talk about natural beauty! How do you do it Abbey?! (The Crane!!!JK LOL)

OK, so I seriously couldn't decide on my FAVORITE photo from this area... there were so many good ones and she looks perfect in all of them!? Looks like I'll just have to post LOTS :) Seriously, look how awesome she looks!

We drove down to go to the marina area but on the way there was this open area with all these flowers! GORGEOUS! She looks so naturally beautiful...

HOW CUTE IS SHE? SOOOO CUTE!!!! I'm jealous!

Abbey, please let me borrow some of your adorableness for just ONE day...

UGH! THIS IS MY FAVORITE SHOT! Look at her! Special thanks to myself and Abbey's mom for our hard work on the bouquet in all these shots. (lol)

Gaaaahhhh! (Do people in Missouri say that? Or is it sooo just an Illinois thing?)

You are straight out of a magazine or something girl...

Sunset...

We finally made it down to the marina... I think I stopped a million times on the way because I was like, OH! This spot is pretty! Let's stop here!... I had to keep reminding myself we'd never make it out of the park if I stopped ever 15 feet! But give me a break, you would do the same thing!

Here she is in her second skin... jeans and a t-shirt.

EYES!

You and Mr. Sailboat match today! (why am I such a dork?!)

Cute!

Love this!

Congrats Abbey, Class of 2009! You're an awesome girl with a wonderful family who loves you very much. I'm glad I've been able to be a part of 2 important experiences in your life now. Let's always stay in touch! Thanks girl!

Claire

Merryl & Tommy: Engagement Photos in Kansas City

2009-04-20T10:26:00.000-07:00

Wow. Where to start with Merryl and Tommy!? This was one of the most crazy/fun engagement sessions ever!

Let's start off with the fact that these two are practically geniuses, Tommy is working on his Masters and he and Merryl are madly and contently in love :)
Their journey started out at the University of Love... wait, I mean the University of Missouri Kansas City where they fell in love :) They had most of their classes together as they learned the basics of Architecture and discovered their FABULOUS chemistry... sigh. Playful, energetic, smart, beautiful, athletic, adventurous... are just a few words I would use to describe these two amazing people!

Their wedding will take place in St. Joseph, Missouri on May 22nd and I'm sooo excited and honored to be their wedding photographer!

I have to tell you, there IS a crazy story involved in this engagement session. We decided to do a sunrise shoot and met downtown in Kansas City on main street. The plan was for all of us to then carpool to the building where Merry and Tommy first met at the UMKC campus(how romantic! I love it when couples choose places that are meaningful to them!)

We piled all of myself and camera stuff into their car and headed down Main Street when all of a sudden... "GGGRRRRRRRRIIINNNDDD"... I honestly have to admit I was pretty much oblivious to it and was chatting it up with Merryl about the wedding and paying no attention to poor Tommy's distressed face. We drove a few more yards and then the "ummmm... what's that sound.. why is the car bumping along like this?" questions started falling out of our mouths. I heard Tommy say something about "the electrical seems to be out as well as the brakes" ... in my head I'm thinking "hmm, that sounds serious, but Tommy looks really calm so this can't be as bad as it sounds, right?"

Well. We ended up coasting back down Main Street and piling into MY car (after I moved everything PLUS the kitchen sink into my trunk) and then proceeded to our location! Phew! We are troopers and survived what could have been a disaster.. I think! You would never know from Tommy and Merryl's cool-collected-ness!

Here are some of my favorite shots from the place where they first met, Epperson House...

CRAZY FACT: Believed to have ghosts, Epperson House was featured on "Unsolved Mysteries" as one of the top five haunted houses in the country. The building has many secret passageways! (None of which I found but I really wanted to go exploring after I heard about it! Move over Nancy Drew!!!)

Love this...

Fierce!

Aww! Can you sooo feel their in-love-ness?

We found a way inside Epperson House (Nancy Drew style!) and got some of this hotttness...

After we left the beautiful and mysterious Epperson we headed to the lawn of the Nelson Atkins for some rough-housing and football throwing! Are they adorable? YES!

The sun was finally rising and warming everything up. I love the colors in these shots... Spring and summer, I love you, please be here to stay!

Gorgeous.

WARNING: Hot!

As we were shooting the above shots, a large production crew was shooting a movie near by (what is this, L.A. or something?!) but I had to steal the director's chair for just a few shots before we called it a day. Love it!

And to end this blog, of course I have to wrap up the story... I offered Merryl and Tommy a ride home "up north" to their house! Yes, I am your hero, here to serve :) I should wear a cape to your wedding! (OK, I sooo would never do that). But seriously, thank you guys sooo soo much! You are fabulous and I know your wedding day is going to rock. See you soon!!!

Engagement Photos in Kansas City: Sallee Gaelle & Drew

2009-04-14T09:38:00.000-07:00

Sallee Gaelle, Drew and I met over coffee last fall and discussed the details of their wedding. It was the first time we had met and I seriously couldn't help but feel sooo "at home" with them! We talked colors, style and they related their funny and quite unique engagement story (which I will share with you when I post their WEDDING photos!) If I remember correctly it involved an Art Fair and someone getting slapped?! Stay tuned for that!

But for REAL yall! (There's my Texas and Mississippi coming out!) These two are sooo in love and so happy and I couldn't be more happy for them! ... AND... I can't wait for their awesome wedding which is happening June 20th at Third Eye in Kansas City!

We headed out to the Plaza/Crossroads for their engagement photos... we even stopped in the exact spot where Drew proposed to Sallee Gaelle on the foot bridge at Brush Creek :)

They said they wanted bright, colorful, happy, romantic and fun photos... Think I pulled that off? Here are some of my faves! (There were seriously so many that I loved... it was really hard to pick!)

I love "laying on the ground photos" !!! Could these two be any more adorable??? Nope!

Ooo la la... so gorgeous!!!

This is the spot where Drew proposed!!! We're rock'n the sun flare. Yummm!

Right below the bridge we stopped for a few more shots in the delicious sunset light... I think I was like, "OMG, yes yes yes, I love that! Keep going!" when Drew grabbed Sallee for this shot. LOL... people must think I'm Cra-ZAY!

This is right next to Third Eye where their wedding will take place!

Ohmygosh I love everything about this photo! ADORABLE! Cute dress, fabulous shoes, lots of fun colors, and a BEAUTIFUL SALLEE GAELLE!

This shot just made me smile when I saw it!

Of course we had to get some of this hotness...

Love this Love this Love this!

Awww... You guys are fabulous...

Thanks so much for being so awesome!!!! I sooo can not wait for your wedding! Yay!

xoxo

Claire

Senior Photos in Lee's Summit: Josh

2009-04-13T09:18:00.000-07:00

Josh wanted to do his senior photos session in the historic part of Downtown Lee's Summit, MO. We only had 2 or 3 days of nice weather last week and the day of his session turned out to be one of them! You can check out www.claireryser.com to see the new site just for HS Seniors (It's still a work in progress, don't judge!).

We decided to do a 2 hour "Urban MIX" session so we could get a nice range of looks! Josh came VERY well prepared with 3-5 outfits complete with different shoes for each style. Go Josh! It really wasn't that long ago that I graduated from high school! (OK, actually now that I think about it, it kind of has! lol) This age is such a turning point in life with so many emotions, decisions to be made, etc. I know josh is going to do great and has an awesome future ahead of him. AND he's a fan of The Kyle Baxter Project, so he gets bonus cool points! He's also a superstar in quite a few of the KBP video shoots.

Here are some of my favorites:

Thanks again Josh! Congrats!

Nicky & Kit: Wedding

2009-04-03T14:19:00.000-07:00

I've been needing to post these shots for quite some time!

When Nicky first contacted me to photograph her Kansas City wedding, we hit it off right from the start! After chatting over coffee in downtown KC, I couldn't help but feel like I had known Nicky for a long time and we were just old friends reconnecting. We laughed as we exchanged stories about our families, similarities and everything else in between!

On their wedding day, Nicky and Kit were so carefree, calm and happy! It was so fun to just watch them be in love and enjoy the day with their friends, family and loved ones! Nicky's four beautiful daughters were her bridesmaids and this could not be a more perfectly matched family!

The ceremony was held at William Jewel College's Grand River Chapel with the reception following at the Intercontinental Rooftop Ballroom in Kansas City, Missouri.

Nicky and Kit, thank you so much for welcoming me into your lives! You're wedding was so full of life, love and friendship and I'm lucky to have been your photographer!!!

The gorgeous Nicky!

Nicky and Kit chose to see each other before the wedding! We were able to grab these super sweet shots of just the two of them before the rest of the day swept them away...

Kit got the guys these great gifts...

I always bring my assistant photographer Larissa to all my weddings! She helps me get fabulous detail shots like these! Nicky put lots of thought and planning into the location, details, elements, color scheme... and everything in between! We love details!

The Intercontinental Rooftop Ballroom has floor to ceiling windows overlooking the plaza... and also some floor to ceiling CURTAINS that go with those windows! Larissa got this shot! Too funny!

Thanks again Nicky and Kit! I had such a wonderful time with you on your wedding day and I look forward to seeing you again soon!!!

Baby Gideon

2009-04-01T11:09:00.000-07:00

Gideon is growing up so fast. He's just about 6 weeks old and we finally got around to taking his newborn pictures! Ryan and Jennifer and first-time and fabulous parents... and I'm looking forward to our Mystery Science Theater 3000 Movie Marathon Night! I'm sure Gideon can't wait either ;)

Here are some of my favorites...

I arrived to find him just nodding off to sleep... (sorry to wake you up little cutie!)

Rise and shine!

Ryan and Gideon... I love baby feet :)

Getting dressed! Doesn't this outfit look like something Ryan would wear! (lol)

Awww!!!

This one is my favorite shot... He's such an angel!

Thanks Ryan, Jennifer and Gideon!
Love,

Auntie Claire!

I fell in love with the 80's

2009-02-26T14:48:00.000-08:00

Kelly and Josh surprised us local photographers with a fun shoot out in Kansas City's City Market with 2 fabulous models and a super cute 80's theme!

I had such a great time!!! I have to admit I was pretty challenged at this shoot because I LEFT MY MAIN CAMERA AND GO-TO WIDE LENS at home on accident! I was so upset. I always do a quick check list for all my shoots and this was the one time I didn't.

So ALL of these were shot with my trusty prime 50mm 1.4 and my backup 20D Canon. (Which I recommend EVERYONE who's just starting out to get! Prime lenses rock the house and are tack sharp. Plus the fixed focal length keeps you moving around and more involved)

Check out Josh's blog for more details and links to some other amazing photographer's websites!

Makeup and styling by Mink Artistry

Here are my faves from the day! Enjoy!

One of my faves below!

"Gawwwgeous!"

Jessica is a professional... Do NOT try this move at home!Especially in shoes like these! (which I must say are DARLING!)

I just love love love this!!!!!

aaahhhhhh! faves!

Awwww! she so pretty!

ooo la la! those eyes are the reallll thang!

something about this one...

she is straight out of a fashion mag!

Meet Jayme of Event Studio!

2009-02-18T10:39:00.000-08:00

For brides wanting a unique wedding with a style all their own... let me introduce one of my most favorite wedding planners / designers in the industry!

Jayme Dean of Event Studio is one beautiful, compassionate, funny, detail-centric ball of energy! I'm looking forward to working with her this summer at a fabulous wedding this August!

Event Studio is a sophisticated and imaginative wedding and event design studio with offices in Kansas City and Dallas... They help brides plan and design weddings down to every last exquisite detail! Check out their blog!
I've noticed that my fabulous clients tend to all have one thing in common when sharing their dreams and desires for the big day: I want to have a unique wedding that's all my own!
So... I decided to ask the ever amazing Jayme Dean to divulge some delicious tips on having a unique and modern wedding... all your own! (and on a budget!) See below for some great wedding ideas! Enjoy!
-------------------------

Claire: What are some of the hottest trends for the '09 bride?

Jayme: The hottest trend right now is high style with a small budget. Our current economic climate calls for the best vendor value for my client’s cash! This sometimes calls for some DIY projects and extreme creativeness, but it can be done.

Claire: Are there other locations besides a church for couples to tie the knot? Do you have any favorites?

Jayme: My favorite is a beach setting with warm sunny rays and sand between my toes…but not here in KC. My favorite place in Kansas City ceremony site is the side yard at The Simpson House. It is so beautiful in the late spring; and is perfect for an intimate wedding with a small guest list. The grounds are very well cared for and the tree’s perfectly poised limbs shade guests like a canopy.

Claire: Our nation is going through some tight economic times. How should brides determine when to scrimp and when to splurge?

Jayme: The couple has to prioritize each aspect of the wedding (photo, video, make-up/hair, wine & dine, etc.). They should certainly splurge on what items have a higher priority than the others. However…DO NOT SCRIMP ON SERVICE FOR YOUR GUESTS!

Claire: Brides want to have a memorable and unique wedding. We've all heard of the "shot gun" or "underwater" weddings, yikes! What are your tips on mixing tradition with a modern motif? Surely there are other ways to make an impression without donning a snorkel!

Jayme: Impress your guests with the most personal details that say YOU!:

If you are a couple that likes to travel, name your tables with places you have visited and include a brief description of the destination, and a photo of the two of you there.

Create a signature drink with your favorite color and name it after the two of you.

Have guests leave a message for the newlyweds on magnetic “business card sized” magnets that you have covered with paper in your wedding colors and decorate your ‘fridge when you return from your honeymoon with advice from your family & friends.

Display photos of your parents, grandparents, even great-grandparents on their wedding day. (Be sure to label each photo!)

Have your valet attendant leave a little message hanging from the rear view mirror, or a sweet treat, when your guest gets into the car.

Have a late-night snack delivered (pizza with your favorite topping, an ice cream sundae bar, mini-hotdogs/mini hamburgers, milk shakes, doughnuts)

Q: As a highly sought after event planner, what is the most frequently asked question you receive?

Who do you recommend for __________________________? (Fill in the blank with any of these: cakes, rentals, gowns, invitations, hair/make-up, ceremony music, etc.)

I always get questions about vendor recommendations.

Q: One last question! What is the number one piece of advice you would give the modern bride?

Enjoy your day! Leave nothing until the last minute. Have fun. Relax. Be sure to eat a piece of your cake, and take a piece out the door to eat later that night!

------------
Thanks Jayme!!! You are wonderful... I'm looking forward to working with you (and laying out with you on your boat this summer!!! ahhhh!)

Before I was a wedding photographer, I was a bride and I definately agree with Jayme! HAVE FUN on your wedding day.... just relax and take in the moment with the love of your life and your friends and family! (AND EAT THE CAKE! YUM!)

Have a fab Wedesday!

Erikka / Personal

2009-02-11T10:00:00.000-08:00

Erikka is the type of girl that lives in the moment and loves every minute of it! She is an actress you may have seen in commercials, ads, or other major productions, such as The Steve & Kathy Show!

So here she is, the gorgeous and fabulous Erikka!

She has quite the personality and is so expressive! (I guess that's why she's an actress!) We got some pretty goofy shots of her making faces... Here is one of her faves...

Ooo la la!

Thanks Erikka! You are adorable!

Sarah and Scotty: In LOVE

2009-02-09T14:43:00.000-08:00

So the weather showed us Missourians some much needed love this past Saturday and blessed us with the most fabulous temperatures of the year so far! I felt like I was not in Kansas City!

It's been one of those winters that feels like it lasts FOREVER... Know what I mean? So the gorgeous 70+ degrees on Saturday was greatly appreciated... Especially since I had a super fun shoot with Sarah and Scotty, BF&GF!

We met for drinks at JP Coffee first and just chilled for a little while. You could totally tell Sarah ADORED her man... And even though Scotty is one tough guy, his soft spot for Sarah is SOOO obvious! Plus, these two are just so CUTE together. I'm sure they get that a lot. Just before the sun started to set we headed out for some fun + hot photos!

SO, now for the goods: My faves!

Sarah asked for a lot of fun shots, but I couldn't help but adore this sweet shot of them...

Are they just the cutest or WHAT? Sarah wins the flexing competition, hands down! lol ;)

I totally cracked up with I saw this one...

Awww!!!

Gaahhhhh! She is so beautiful!!!

And of course we had to get some singles of Scotty...

Sarah is such a happy and smiley girl! I love it!

Bust'n the moves! Too funny!

The sun was just POURING down golden light on us. It was perfect!

This is probably one of my most favorites... There's just something about it. Maybe it's the warm, yummy golden light, the soft breeze, or the way Sarah's foot is popped out. Sigh... Love.

Thank you Sarah and Scotty! You are beautiful people, inside and out. :)

Leann & Wes - Wedding

2009-01-09T09:55:00.000-08:00

Leann seamed to float on thin air all day. When I arrived to meet her, we toured the Hilton and she showed me where the reception would take place. Every detail was in order and Leann was so calm and relaxed... but still beaming with excitement!

I was overwhelmed by the joy and happiness that filled the whole day -from getting ready early that morning until the end of the night as Leanne and Wes danced the evening away with each other and their closest friends and family.

I think this was one of the happiest weddings I've ever been to. By the end of the day my face hurt from smiling so much and my abs hurt from laughing so much!

Wes and Leann, thank you so much for choosing me to be your photographer and for being my friends. I know you both are going to have a totally fabulous future together and I'm just glad I could join you along the way.

Here are my favs from the day!

Getting Ready...

Do you know how hard it is to cram 7 girls in to an elevator when 4 of them are wearing gowns with trains, and 2 of them are armed with multiple cameras and gear? We are troopers!

Getting laced up...

See! I told you... We couldn't stop laughing. Proof that I AM funny! (to my husband: I hope you're reading this!)

So beautiful!

The guys...

Don't worry Wes, I'll leave out the photos where you just about lost it ;). I cried too!

I just love the sweetness of this one...

This shot was taken just a few minutes after they were married! Woo Hoo! Look'n hottt!

Congrats Leann & Wes!!! I wish you both the most fabulous 2009!

Heather & Kevin - Wedding

2008-11-06T15:30:00.000-08:00

Heather & Kevin's day was a blur of fun, love and laughs!

Thank you so much for letting me spend the whole day with you as your photographer! I had a blast!

Here are some of my favorites from their big day...

Getting ready

The dress

Dress details were amazing

Heather and her mom sharing a last minute together before the ceremony. Love this.

The ladies!

The groom (top, far right) and his men!

One more of the guys...

Getting married!

Husband and Wife!

Ooo la la! Romantic!

Kevin was the sweetest guy! Can't you just feel the love?

When we got to the reception, the hazy clouds seemed to have melted... it seems like we never see bight blue skies here in KC... so when Larissa (my assistant photog) and I saw this we dropped everything but our main cameras and started shooting! It only lasted for another hour then everything went all hazy again.

I have to post this photo because Heather and Kevin were the first couple I've ever had do the whole... cake in the face thing!

Which was apparently a big crowd-pleaser!

For some reason, I love this shot.

The location was gorgeous outside... Heather loved this spot, so we grabbed a quickie here!

First Dance

Love this... so sweet!

THANKS HEATHER AND KEVIN! You guys rock!

Wedings Season!

2008-10-30T07:46:00.000-07:00

October has been the busiest month for me this whole year! I'll be blogging lots of weddings in the next few days...

Here are two sneak peeks!

Heather & Kevin...

Leann & Wes...

Stay tuned ;)

Theresa & Nick

2008-10-23T19:42:00.001-07:00

Wow... where to start with Theresa and Nick?

Theresa was the first bride to book me as her official professional wedding photographer! I had only shot 1 other wedding in the whole history of my life... but somehow, someway... Theresa just knew that I was the one for her. When we sat down at our first consultation, she asked to see some more of my wedding images. I didn't have a website, blog... or anything except a few photos on a myspace page. Embarrassingly, I said, "Here are some shots that I took at my last (only!) wedding" .... We scanned the images on my lap top and after a while she replied, "Do you have any more?" .... "Um. Nope!" But because of my rediculously good looking good looks and amazing personality (Whaaat?!) she just couldn't say no to me! And with that, she booked for her wedding to come the next fall.

So a long time past, and Theresa watched me finally get a blog... a website... and quite a few weddings under my belt.

And here we are tonight! The beautiful, bubbly, cheery, silly, quirky Theresa is now married happily to the genius, goofy, exploding ball of energy... Nick.

I can't thank you enough T, for having faith in me, trusting me and believing in me... even when there wasn't much to believe in! I'm so glad we've become friends and I'm excited to see the good things to come for you and Nick! Congrats!!!

This shot captures Nick in a nutshell...

Get'n wild with the ladies...

It rained pretty much the whole afternoon... Look at these troopers!

Fortunately, Theresa had bought all the girls parasols as a gift! Those definitely came to good use... and made for some super cute shots!

Back at the church things were a little warmer. The flower girl was adorable... check out those big blue eyes! I could have shot this cutie all day!

The ceremony was absolutely beautiful...

And Theresa left no detail unplanned.
I love how she chose this very pure, clean, bright organic look for the reception...

Thank you so much Theresa and Nick! I'll see you soon!

PS: I still have your umbrella you let me borrow that day!

Ashley and her men! ;)

2008-10-15T20:44:00.000-07:00

A couple Sundays ago, I spent a couple hours or so with 6 wonderful people... And even in that short period of time, I experienced an overwhelming amount of unconditional love, passion, playfulness... and a very deep connection intertwined with a familiarity only found in the closest of families.

Here are just a few of my favorite shots! Trust me, it was hard to pick just a few.

This shot just happened when I wasn't really looking for it! these boys are BOYS... all caps!!!

Woo Woo! We had to sneak off away from the kiddos for a little...

Can't you feel the llooooveee! :)

One of my most faves!!! I love Tanner is kicking is boots up in the air!

THANKS SO MUCH!!! I had a blast with you all... Thanks for giving me a glimpse into your wonderful, crazy, love-filled lives!

xoxo
Claire Elizabeth Ryser

Family Time!

2008-10-09T17:20:00.000-07:00

The Porter Family
Lee's Summit

OK. Let me just start this post off by saying that this is seriously one of my most favorite shoots ever! This family was sooo up for doing anything and even threw tons of cool ideas at me. I had a blast all afternoon with you guys. Check out some of my favorites (it was sooo hard to choose just a few!) and you'll see why I LOVE what I do.

THANK YOU SO MUCH YOU GUYS... this shoot was super fun. Enjoy your delicious family photos!

The next few photos amaze me!
These photos were not retouched... just a little bit of contrast here and there... those eyes are the real deal!!! What cuties!

Maddie

Evan

Love these yummy colors!!!.... Wrong end Evan!

I saw these huge lollies at the store and totally couldn't pass them up. Over a pound of beautiful solid sugar. mmm hhmm. lol

OMG! Look at these eyes! I LOVE this father / son shot.

ARE YOU SERIOUS? Cuteness overload!

This is another FAV of mine. I have so many from this shoot.

You guys ROCK! Seriously, Nathan had so many fun ideas and these guys were willing to try ANYTHING.

I LOVE THIS! Ahhh!

I'm so jealous of your adorableness! Could these two be any sweeter?

Another favorite...

AWWWW!!!

Rachel & Jason - Wedding

2008-10-07T21:04:00.000-07:00

He was in love... She was oblivious.
He wanted to be with her... She wanted nothing to do with him.
He pursued only Rachel for over 2 years!
She finally gave Jason the time of day and he swept her off her feet! Seriously!

Jason cherishes Rachel with every fiber of his being and she looks at him with adoration... and the hugest smile in the whole wide world!

Rachel's friends rolled their eyes in exasperation as they recounted the hundreds of times they had to say, "Rach, what about JASON? Go out with HIM!". Jason visited the coffee shop Rachel worked at nearly every day for 2 years, just trying to get to know her better... even if it was from a distance. Every now and then, they would exchange a few words before Rachel would make a lame excuse and duck under the counter or head to the back room to "make some ice".

One night, it was late and snowing very hard. Rachel was closing down the coffee shop... And Jason knew it! He drove to the shop and shoveled off the inches of snow and ice covering her car. I wanted to make sure Rachel got home safe.

Jason's care, persistence and effort finally paid off and they had their first date. And like they say, THE REST IS HISTORY!

Thank you so much Rachel and Jason for including me in your most special day!

Classic...

What a line up!

Rachel and the ladies... work'n it out!

Beautiful!!!!!

This ceremony was one of the most elegant I have ever seen. 18 attendants dotted the massive stage... deep read curtains for the backdrop... Glam!

Rachel's dress was stunning!

MARRIED!!!

Think we can fit 25 people in here?

We were going to try to take some "serious" shots... But Rachel couldn't stop smiling!

Adorableness overload...

THANK YOU RACHEL AND JASON!!! It was incredible to be a part of your wedding day and be a small part of your big story. Much Love! - Claire

My Husband... a Writer Nominated for an Emmy!

2008-08-21T22:06:00.000-07:00

Paul Ryser, my wonderful husband, wrote and produced this sketch for the award-winning comedy talk / variety show, The Steve & Kathy Show (CW, Sunday 8:30am).

The show received 4 Emmy nominations tonight at the regional Kansas City award night.... Paul is a writer for the show... here is a sketch he wrote that was one of the nominees!!! GO HONEY BUNNY!!!!!!!!!

We just finished shooting the first episodes for the new season with an all new cast last night!!! Big things are to come for this show!!! So cool.

Free to Succeed

2008-08-19T07:32:00.000-07:00

The Free To Succeed Tour last night in KCK was nothing short of amazing, inspiring, motivating, and FREEING.

I'm really new to the photography industry as most of you know. The session gave me so many new ideas and I am sooo pumped up put them into action. Jasmine Star and David Jay gave me a lot to think about... and DO!

In my gut, I've always had a feeling and knew everything they were saying was true... But actually hearing someone else say the things I had been thinking (why do I have to have so many products? Why can't I just charge a service fee and be 100% flexible on the other stuff? What's so bad about giving away the digital files? Do I really have to have 10 zillion pro lenses? I'm sure there's a faster post process!) Everything Jas and DJ said made me stand up on the inside and yell, "HA! I KNEEEWWWW it!"" I just needed someone to show me the way and set me free. :)

So to Jasmine and DJ, (if you ever read this one girls blog out of the millions of others) THANK YOU!

Nick & Kerry - Part 2

2008-08-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

Wellll... There were just too many fun photos and I couldn't decide which ones to post. So here's a slide show! After the slide show has played, you can flip through to see all the images in the gallery. ENJOY!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE SHOW!

Nick & Kerry - Part 1

2008-08-15T14:30:00.000-07:00

Kerry is From Canada
Nick is Not
They fell in love and now their married, eh?!

OK, so my poem doesn't exactly rhyme or anything. But it's true, eh!? ( I don't think "eh" is supposed to be a question, but it sounds like one... I'm easily confused)

Nick was BEAMING all day. He has the kind of love for Kerry that you can see all the way from accross the room.

And it wasn't hard to spot Kerry from across the room... she's the one smiling from ear to ear in a hot and very couture wedding gown.

Thanks Nick and Kerry for choosing me to be your photographer! I had a blast rock'n the day away with you.

See you tonight!

Claire

-----

Fun in the bathroom...

Getting Pretty...

Larissa found this and grabbed this shot. One of my FAV's! And I LOVE this bouquet!
Jennifer did a GREAT job.

Nick work'n it!

GORGEOUS

I cried so many times at this wedding. I couldn't help it! Nick and Kerry were so free and transparent... seeing people who are so sincere in their love saying "... 'till death do us part..." It's just, WOW.

This photo was not taken at the church... This is at Nick's mom's house! Seriously, these enormous windows are generations old and are sooo gorgeous. We stopped here on the way to the ceremony and boy am I glad!

---------

You'll have to wait 'till later to see my favorites from the reception! Here's a quick sneak peek:

How to get a photo of the bride and groom while they're being toasted from 60 feet away....

Marketing YOU

2008-08-01T10:05:00.000-07:00

Before I was a photographer... My first love, was Marketing.

I can remember being 12 years old and looking at a Coke can... and thinking "someone had to come up with the words on here... and someone had to design the graphics and decide what colors to use. I want to do that when I grow up!"

I wanted to be the girl in charge of writing product descriptions, designing ads, product packaging, writing the copy... I wanted to do that. I wanted to create, design and be the person responsible for the face of a company. Looking back, those are pretty big aspirations for a 12 year old.

9 years later, I walked down the aisle with my soon to be husband. Not a church aisle.. that was still a month out... but the aisle at UCM. I remember hearing my name "Claire Elizabeth Lohman, B.S.B.A , Marketing " . It was such a great feeling! (no more homework!) Lucky Paul (my fiance at the time) got the words, "Cum Laude" added to HIS name. Smarty Pants. I studied harder.

I think one of the biggest misunderstandings about "marketing", is that most people think it means "advertising and selling" ...

You see, marketing is offering a product or service that will meet and exceed the needs and expectations of a specific group of people. It's about excellence, creativity, communication... and making sure the end customer is happy, thrilled with their product or service. It's about creating an experience and making a connection. It's about being there when they need you. It's about establishing a relationship.

As photographers, WE are the face of our company. Not just our photos, portfolio, or website.

I once had a bride tell me she was trying to decide between me and another photographer in town. "I felt like you really wanted to be there as a friend... not just a photographer. You really cared"

What she said meant so much to me. And that's what I want to be for each bride that I meet along the way. I don't just want them to pick me because they liked my portfolio better than someone else's... but because they know that I'll be there as a friend and they know they'll be taken care of like they should be on one of the most special days of their life.

Everyday is a leaning process. Everyday is a chance to make a difference, improve, love, be loved... and capture love with every snap of the shutter.

I can't wait to learn more and improve how I work with my friends and clients. I think David Jay's Free To Succeed Tour with Jasmine Star is going to be right up my ally! My friend Kenny just started photography and heard about the tour on my blog.. so now he's going to go! He's just getting started and I'm excited to see all the awesome things to come in his future.

So no matter what you do, be it photography, graphic design, public relations, at-home mom... or one of the other a zillion other careers out there... marketing applies to you. Listen to the people around you.. find out what they like, don't like. communicate, have excellence in all you do. That's how you have successful business AND relationships.

Well, this post is long. I could write a book about this stuff though. Maybe someday I will ;)

In the meantime. Be you and be excellent at it!

xoxo,

Claire

Los Angeles Earthquake

2008-07-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

This afternoon, there was an earthquake with a 5.8 magnitude in the L.A area.
L.A. is far from home, but my dad is there this week for meetings and briefings for his job. See the article here

He called us and said he was OK and his building was earthquake proof... but that the building swayed back and forth quite a bit! His staff / local members there said it was one of the worst they've ever experienced there.

I've lived in the Midwest my whole life (Born in New Braunfels, TX, lived in Biloxi Mississippi, Rantoul / Ludlow Illinois, Whitman Air Force Base, Knob Knoster, Smithton, Raymore, Lee's Summit, and Blue Springs, Missouri, (GEESH! That's ALOT of moving... and we're not even in the military!) So I'm used to storms and tornadoes... But earth quakes?! Yikes!

CNN Live was showing live (obviously) footage of the streets and it was like they were turning into mud pits and water was coming up. CRAZY!

In the footage some people were just going about the lives like nothing was going on... while others were totally freaking out. I guess that's how you know who the locals and who the out-of-towners are.

Last week Dad was in Washington D.C. and had quite the adventure there too. I say, "no more adventures, come home!"

To the Theatre!

2008-07-28T17:06:00.000-07:00

Paul and I (well, mainly I) bought season passes to Starlight Theatre in Kansas City. We'll be joining friends and family for a fun night out under the stars! Tonight is Music Man. I've never seen it, but Paul was in the play in high school. I'm practically dragging him. It will be soooo much fuunnnn!!!! He just rolls his eyes at me. lol.

Too bad! ;)

Bright Eyes : Kira is 6 months!

2008-07-28T15:07:00.000-07:00

I met Tamara and Justin through my friends, Dustin, Lora and Maya!

Kira did such a great job! She wasn't feeling well at all... and Tamara would probably say that's an understatement. But you can't tell from these photos! Here big eyes shined right through! We were so proud of her.

I love to shoot babies in available / natural light because it just lights up their whole face... and especially their eyes. We started out outdoors... but it made little Kira squint. So we moved things inside.. and POP! she cheered right up.

What a personality!!!!

She was looking at daddy in this shot. I'm pretty sure she'll get whatever she wants from him with these big eyes!!!

And this face... Just MELTS me!

Thanks so much guys for choosing me to be a part of Kira's 6 month b-day!

Dina & Brenden

2008-07-26T10:15:00.001-07:00

It's not often that the first time you meet someone... they're wearing nothing but a towel.

I had the pleasure of shooting with the fun and fabulous Josh Solar recently! And NO, he was NOT the one in the towel.

Dina, the beautifully stunning bride, was super nice and so easy to work with... Maybe that's why Josh knew he could leave me to handle the "girls getting ready" part on my own ; )

Upon entering their hotel room, I was warmly greeted by Dina's sister-in-law and her step mom. As we were talking about the day ahead and getting to know each other, Dina popped out of the bathroom, all smiles, in nothing but a towel! They all squealed about how beautiful she was... I have to admit, she was glowing!!! After we met everyone started buzzing around and Dina quickly slipped into her dress with the help of her wonderful ladies!

Dina must be blessed with the gift of craftiness! She MADE her hairpiece! SOOOO GORGEOUS. And you have to love her body-hugging gown. GEEZ!

*bling*

Everyone was ready early, so the girls decided to cruise around in the limo with some champaign... and let me just say this. What happened in that limo, stays in the limo!!!

An operatic voice sang out as Dina walked down the aisle. Does Brenden look happy or WHAT?

Caption for bottom right photo: "With this thing I the we... Wait, what do I say?!"

"look'n all model-y" as Josh would say! ;)

I love the simplicity of this shot...

Jenny's shoes were pretty tough to fill... Thanks Josh for letting me try! :) (Jenny is Josh's lovely wife who usually shoots with him... her baby was about to pop out that day, so it was best she stayed home.) Say hi to the new baby for me!!!!

Claire

Life and Matresses (!?)

2008-07-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

Stay tuned...

Starting this Saturday, I will blog 1 of these events each day!

AND I have a mini Photoshop tutorial for you Photoshop newbies out there!

Nick & Kerry's Wedding
Jason and Raeann's Wedding
Bill & Becky's Wedding
Dina and Brenden's Wedding
Maureen - Business Headshots
Baby Kira's 6 months! / Family Photos

... So hang in there and check back Saturday!

Paul and I are right in the middle of getting my office set up. A few days ago it was packed with boxes of stuff we didn't know what to do with but of course NEEDED to keep for some reason "just in case". But now it is mostly empty! So we'll be painting and spending lots of money at Lowe's, Pier 1, World Market ... etc.

For those of you who follow the blog, we bought our first home in April and we're still "moving in" if that gives you any idea of how busy our lives are. I wake up every morning on a mattress... on the floor... Which is surprisingly more comfortable then our box spring + frame set up we previously had. Go figure. I just keep telling myself that we're just doing the bohemian thing for a season. It's great until our baby (Louie, our sweet 4 month old kitten) uses our faces as spring boards at 3am.

Larissa and I are signed up for David Jay's Free To Succeed Tour which is taking place very close to home. Being the new girl on the block, I'm excited to meet all the local KC talent in the photography world all in 1 spot!... And of course meet Jasmine Star! She is a twin (like me!! from a big family (like me!) and has found great success and fulfillment in what she does... very inspiring to someone who's only been in this for about 10 months now!

Anyways. I'm glad I get to take photos of beautiful people who love each other.

Friday is my Birthday by the way! I'll be the ripe ooollllld age of ... 23!

Whitney & Aaron: Part III - Slideshow!

2008-07-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

Website / Clients / Etc.!

2008-07-07T11:01:00.001-07:00

Hi to those of you who read this blog!

If you haven't noticed, my website is undergoing major changes!

So I want to thank you for your patience in this transition and I promise your proofing galleries will be up and running soon.

Also, I'm having issues with my ftp-ing with the new hosting info... so slideshows are a little late coming.

If you have questions or need to get a hold of me asap, just call me at (816) 726-6705 and leave a message and I'll get back with you as soon as I can.

THANKS everyone!

Claire

Aaron + Whitney: Wedding Part II

2008-06-18T10:11:00.001-07:00

Here are a few more shots from Aaron and Whitney's wedding!

Details...

Love these classy shoes...

Getting ready...

All dressed up and look'n HOTTTT (with 4 t's!!! whoo hoo!)

Aaron and his MANY men!

I have never seen so many gorgeous women!!! WORK IT LADIES!!!

OK. I thought this was sooo funny and such a PERFECT demonstration of Aaron's sense of humor, personality, and timing.

We were taking NOT goofy photos, but then Aaron starts busting out the YMCA moves! I didn't tell Whitney because... well. I knew she would find out soon enough.

Young Man.. da na na na na na...

Part III and the slide show coming later this week!

Ciao!

- Claire

Kira + Jeremy: Wedding

2008-06-17T15:14:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of working with Marco of Photo Mementos a few weekends ago to 2nd shoot Kira and Jeremy's wedding!

The wedding was held at Southmoreland Park downtown on the Plaza and the reception was at the Kemper Museum of Modern Art. It was a perfect (but hot!) wedding with plenty of off the hook details... I loved every second of it.

Here are just a few of my favorites... all photos are taken by me, yours truly, but all photos here are (c) Photo Mementos.

Brides maids double checking the final details of the day...

Details, details...

Getting dressed...

I think this is my most favorite shot of the day...

Adorable flower girl...

LOVE these colors...

Congrats to Kira and Jeremy, thanks to Marco / Photo Mementos for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the special day!

My Only Danger

2008-06-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

Had some fun last night with these guys...

Jesse, Joe, Daniel (Matt), and Aaron. They needed some shots for their new press kit they're putting together. My Only Danger's latest album has been very successful and they've got some big things in store for them in the future!

Take luck guys!

From Right to Left: Jesse, Joe, Daniel, Aaron (my "little" brother!!!)

Aaron & Whitney Wedding: Part 1

2008-05-29T15:37:00.000-07:00

"I think I LOVE him!" Was Whitney's confession to her older sister. After that... things are pretty much history!

Aaron moved to Kansas City from Minnesota to attend World Revival School of Ministry, the college at Whitney's church. One Sunday morning church service, Whitney's mother nudged her and pointed out the tall, athletic, red-headed young man... who would soon be the man to sweep Whitney off her feet!

The happy couple was wed at World Revival Church in Kansas City last Saturday. Thank you Aaron and Whitney for choosing me to be your photographer. I know you will have such an amazing and ADVENTUROUS future together! I'm so glad to be in your lives. See you when you get back from your honeymoon!!!

LOVE,

Claire

Here are just 3 shots from their love-filled day. Slide show coming soon!

The day started off really dark and rainy, but when we stepped outside later on, the sun magically appeared and began beating lotttsss of hot hot rays on us... with not a cloud in the sky!

So romantic...

Aaron and Whitney had 9 (NINE!!!) attendants each, not counting ushers, flower girl and 2 ring bearers! So this was a BIG wedding.
Stay tuned for a slide show coming soon!

Josh & Mallory

2008-05-28T20:36:00.000-07:00

They had known each other since they were young teens... But it wasn't until friends and family gave Josh a friendly shove towards Mallory that sparks started to fly. Josh never thought Mallory would go for him... but events in their life began to bring them closer and closer together. The inevitable took place - Josh and Mallory fell in love and were married in Florida this past spring.

It was such an honor to be able to shoot their bridal session here in Kansas City! Thank you both so much!

Here is a slide show of some of my favorites from their shoot...

Adorableness Overload!

2008-04-28T08:41:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful and warm Sunday afternoon... I think the warmest day of the year so far! I headed out across the Missouri state line into Kansas until I arrived at the home of the sweetest family... Dustin, Lora, and baby Maya! It was Maya's 6 month birthday! Dustin and Lora are first time parents and even have their own blog documenting memories of this special time in their life.

Lora found this trail and park just a couple blocks from their home... It couldn't have been more perfect!

Maya was alll smiles and BIG cheery eyes... I couldn't pull my camera away from those baby-doll eyes and cute puckered lips. Maya showed us her new trick! She can roll over all by herself now!... And almost sit up on her own!

Here are some of my favorites from the day...

CHECK OUT THOSE EYES....!

Daddy's Girl!...

Fun times with Mom...

Maya in a basket! So cute...

And I think this one is my most favorite of the day...

Thank you soooo much May, Dustin, and Lora for letting me be a part of this special day!

Claire

Big Changes

2008-04-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

I realize it has been an eternity since my last post! I'm now fully recovered from a long stretch of bronchitis! In the midst of being sick, Paul and I are also smack dab in the middle of...

MOVING IN TO OUR FIRST HOME! That's right, Paul and I bought our first home a couple weeks ago and are now in the moving-in process. It's going to be so adorable when all the touching up is done... AND I'll have my own office!

Anyways, I'll post photos in the near future.

In other exciting news (At least to my husband), we'll be adopting!... a Baby Kitten! Guess what, we're adopting a baby kitten! ... I smile as Paul keeps reminding me each day. I think he's more excited than I am!

I had 3 wonderful shoots last weekend and I will post some photos tomorrow. I have 3 more this week too! So things are really busy around here.

I hope everyone is enjoying this change in weather as much as I am! Just hope it doesn't snow again. You never know around here.

Well, much love to all. Enjoy this beautiful day!

Claire

Blogger Photos?!

2008-03-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

****When I upload my photos to blogger, it makes them a little desaturated (makes the images less colorful). Does anyone know how to fix this issue?****

THANKS

Claire

Jamie

2008-03-17T09:33:00.000-07:00

Jamie came to America on the 4th of July quite a few years ago. Leaving Australia, she and her family embarked on a journey that would change their lives forever. Jamie made friends very quickly... Thanks to her rad personality and cool accent! About a year or so ago, she and her family moved back to Australia. Jamie is now out on her own completing her nursing degree... and she decided to come back to Kansas City for a visit that is all too short! Jamie, it has been so good to see you again and I hope the doors open for you to come back to the states very soon! We love you!

We went to historic downtown Lee's Summit for a few quick shots. Little did we know, the weather was going to take some drastic turns from the lovely 75 and sunny we had just a couple days previously. We also had no idea that there would suddenly be a large group of girl scouts, green-clad marching bands, and John Deer tractors seemingly chasing us down Main St. We ended up taking the back ally ways in 30degree weather! Thanks for being so tough, Jamie!

Here are some of my favorite shots ... Check out her stunning eyes!!!

LOVE this shot...

Thanks Jamie for being such a great sport on a cold and crazy day! I love you!

2008-03-05T13:28:00.000-08:00

So far I have 9 Weddings booked for this year... 1 more, and I'll be at my goal of 10 Weddings!

I'll also be shooting with Marco and Jan Simonelli of Photomomentos in Lee's Summit for a couple weddings, Aaron of Heather Cole Photography, and Josh Solar of Solar Photo!

I'm so excited about getting to work with these amazing photographers! I met with Jan and Marco a few nights ago and they were so open and friendly! I felt a connection right away.

My first wedding of the year is coming up in just a few weeks in Dallas! So stay tuned for some "best of" photos from that.

If you are a senior, or know a high school senior, I'm accepting bookings for senior photos for 08' and '09! We've got some really cool products to go along with that this year too! Stay tuned for more info on that as well.

Paul and I just celebrated our 9 months of wedded bliss on Sunday! We are more in love than ever! sigh.

Anyways, hope everyone has a great week. Things are sort of slow right now because of the weather... but as things start warming up, you can expect to see a lot more (interesting) blogs!

A Thing or 2

2008-02-19T10:15:00.000-08:00

Early this morning, Paul woke me up with a gentle kiss to say goodbye before he left for work... my eyes wouldn't open very much for me yet, but as he bent down to kiss me, I held him tightly and we said, "have the best day ever!" He tucked me in and I watched him tip toe out in his shirt and tie and I let out a sigh.. I love you paulie..

for some reason, the clock in our bedroom is 3 hours and 38 minutes fast. It has been like that since the power went out about 2 months ago. We just got used to it and now I hardly even notice it anymore. Sometimes, when it is 12:00am, I'll say "Paul, its only a quarter till 9! We've got the whole night ahead of us!" He just laughs and rolls his eyes at me.

So I've been doing this 'photography thing' for almost 8 months now. I LOVE it. I feel so lucky... blessed that I get to be a part of the most special day of 2 people's lives - their wedding day. Before I was a wedding photographer, I was a bride... So I know how important finding the "perfect" photographer is... and I hope I can be that "perfect" photographer for many more brides to come!

Paul and I will be leaving town for a few days this weekend. It will be sooo nice to just be with the one I love... the one whose kisses in the morning make me forget how cold it is outside.

I love you Paul!

Hurry Up, Spring!

2008-02-13T08:29:00.001-08:00

Well. Today is cold.bleak.muddy... and there is no sign of life to be found in any type of foliage. Spring, hurry up!

The news said we're supposed to get another layer of snow or ice. I hope they're wrong (like usual! lol)

I'm going to post a few pics that I've never posted before... photos that remind me of warm days... friends... pool parties... float trips... and the days of summer that I'm soooo longing for!

One more of Elisabet... I love the reflection in her super cute sunglasses!

This is my twin sister, Emily! She is a communications major at UMKC and she's also an amazing Realtor! If you're looking for a great house and a great, dedicated, friendly agent... she's your girl! She's also an AMAZING singer and musician! ... and she's my twin sister... so she's cool. These were some shots we took for future CD cover / art for her new house.

Anyways... I've got my fingers crossed that spring will come early this year. Come on sunshine!

Photoshop Class

2008-02-04T12:30:00.000-08:00

"Claire!... I mean, Mrs. Ryser, how do I..."

I teach Graphic Design and Digital Imaging for 6th-12th grade at World Revival Academy in Kansas City. Every time we learn something new that the kids think is cool, I can hardly get them to settle down! They shout and go all ballistic on me! So funny.

Today we started on CD cover design. We learned about text FX and getting our print settings and specs right. They're still trying to get the hang of using the layers palette. I told them I could make a CD cover in 20 minutes using only 3 images and text FX. So I did. (I do things like that for demonstration as well as inspiration)

Here is what I came up with! (just for fun!)

If you ever get the chance to teach a class.. even if it is to volunteer, I definitely recommend it!

Ben and Shelly : Engagement

2008-01-28T13:53:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I had the wonderful privilege of working with a fantastic couple... Ben and Shelly!

The weather was nice to us and decided to warm up! Ben, Shelly, Larissa and I traveled all across Lee's Summit and Kansas City to take some great shots!

Ben is a pilot, so we got to go out to a hanger and take photos in a plane! It was so much fun. I can't wait 'till I get to do their wedding in March!

Here are some of my favorite shots of the day...

Larissa snapped this first shot! Love it.

Here's the plane!!!!

I had fun playing around with textures... and came up with this blend of retro and vintage...

So there's just a few of my favorites! Ben and Shelly are so great, fun, easy going and were very willing to do and try anything! I'm really excited and can't wait to be with them in Dallas TX for their wedding day!

Thanks Ben and Shelly!

Updates / Photos !

2008-01-11T13:21:00.000-08:00

Wow, things are already booking up for spring!
If you are interested in a June weekend wedding, there's only a couple more openings for that month... *sigh* love is in the air!

For weddings, the latest addition to... me...is Larissa!

Larissa is a freshmen at Longview College. You'll be seeing her tag along and shooting with me at most of my weddings and events!

We did a mutual photo session ( I just made that term up) where we both took photos of each other! It was really fun!

Here's some shots from our day...

That's all for now. Getting ready for a wild and crazy weekend!

xoxo,

Claire

A Christmas Like NO OTHER!

2008-01-09T13:56:00.000-08:00

OK! So the Christmas post I promised is finally here!
I LOVE Christmas! I am so thankful for so many things... especially a wonderful family... Thanks to all my out of town family too! I love you!

We had such a wonderful Christmas. My alarm went off at 6:30 am. I think we hit snooz e a couple of times... but finally Paul and I finally got out of bed and started loading all the gifts into the car (well, PAUL loaded all the gifts in the car), makeing several trips... until we were ready to head over to my parents house 20 mins away!

We were so excited! I'm not going to lie! How could you not be? A Lohman Family Christmas... is a Christmas like NO OTHER! ... I'm not sure if it's the generous ammounts of gifts waiting to be received... or the generous amounts of gifts waiting to be given. Probably both! Either way, it's so wonderful to spend a whole day giving, loving, playing... with the ones you love the most.

Most people put their gifts under the tree... but ... we kind of ran out of room!... and rooms!

We literally have piles... no, 4ft mountains! - of gifts. It was so fun to see the looks on everyones faces gawking around the room!

My mom got all the guys in the family Shocking Laser Tag that actually shocks you! It hurts! No cheating in THAT game! The box actually says "This is not a toy. For ages 12-55. Not reccommended for those with heart problems or high blood pressure." CRAZY!

I got Paul this rock'n helicopter that flies great! It is sooo cool... it flies really smooth and has great control!

To: Mom
From: Dad

Bling!

Here is paul acting like a super model and rock'n his new video chair! It has speakers and other cool features that video guy types are really into.

Then we had a fantabulous Christmas Dinner! Check out these fancy place settings! Go Mom!

So there's a small, wee, tiny glimpse into a Lohman Family Christmas.
I have truly been blessed with such an amazing family. God bless us, one and all! Merry Christmas!

(yes, I realize it is January now)

Visionaire Studios Website Launch!

2008-01-08T09:40:00.000-08:00

The new website is finally here!

Please Welcome, visionairestudios.com!

According to the web tech people at the wonderful bludomain, the site will be "propagating" for the next 72 hours which means it will be off line sometimes while it is "going around the world" (whatever THAT means!) I'm not very technically in tune when it comes to web knowledge I guess.

But yes, I am so very excited! I've been working on it since September, and it's finally done. *sigh!*

Anyways, more posts coming soon with more pics!

- Claire

2008-01-03T12:21:00.000-08:00

2007 Was an amazing year. A year of discovery, love, passion, ... it was amazing.

Here are just a few highlights of 07 for me:

1. I got married to the love of my life, Paul Benjamin Ryser on June 2, 2007
2. I graduated in May 07 with a BSBA, Marketing, from the University of Central Missouri
3. I graduated the same day as my husband (then, fiance!) and we got to walk together!!! He graduated Cum Laud (spelling?)
4. Spending a wonderful summer with Paul with NO HOME WORK!
5. Shooting my first wedding on July 7th, 2007!
6. Discovering my love of all things photography!
7. Buying a prime lens (Thank you lens, for supersharp, high contrasted images, fast focusing, and less editing time!)
8. Starting this blog!
9. Building my new website, www.visionairestudios.com with the amazing bludomain !
10. Spending the holidays with the ones I love the most: Paul, Mom, Dad, Emily, James, Molly, Aaron, Larissa, Adam, Evan, Mitch, Katie, Mom and Dad Ryser, Tim, Karin, Haley, Alexander, Chris, and Deb! (My immediate family!) Yes, I have a large family! It is wonderful!

I promise, photos are soon coming!

Until then, enjoy the brand new 2008!

Happy Holidays and More!

2007-12-27T12:36:00.000-08:00

WOW. what a great Christmas! I hope everyone had a wonderful, fun-filled, relaxing, time with family and friends this Christmas.

I think this was the best Christmas EVER for Paul and I. We have been so blessed and now we're able to bless SO MANY others. I'll be posting a holiday blog later filled with photos and summaries of the many adventures of Claire.

But for now, on to other things photo related!

Just before Christmas, I photographed the Drumeller family! What a blast. The boys were so adorable ... and such performers! Carrie and CJ are great parents... Cj is a musician too. They were wonderful and brave and tried all these new ideas I had... check out this great look'n family!

Their oldest boy... what a funny little guy!

And here are a couple of my faves!

So that is a small glimpse at the Drumeller family of Lee's Summit! You can always view the whole set at visionairestudios.photoreflect.com

4 More Days!

2007-12-21T11:45:00.000-08:00

4 More days until Christmas! I'm soooo excited!

So far, I have no blog readers... I'm not doing a very good job in the awareness category though!

It looks like Christmas eve will be spent at the Ryser home, then Christmas morning will be spent at the Lohman home! I'll be posting images of the big day! I'm soo excited! (did I say that already?)

Well, just looking ahead for the next few months, here's what I've got scheduled so far...

Destination Wedding: Dallas, TX
Engagement: Ben and Shelly, KCMO
Wedding: KCMO Area
Anytime / Senior Pics session: Kenny and Friends!
Family Shoot: Dustin and Jeana
Family Shoot: Autumn & Kiley
Engagement: Megan & Michael
Portraits: Katie
Family Shoot: Sheena & Derrick
Bridals: Sheena & Derrick
Fashion/Make Up: Adamo Venuesta

Just a sneak peak. As of now, I'm only a weekend photographer, but as the days start getting lighter longer and the weather gets warmer, I'll be able to do a few weekday evenings here and there.

Pictures make blogs more fun, so here are some images of a very very adorable baby girl, Maya.

She is the first baby I have ever photographed! She was so sleepy the whole shoot, but she did so well! Take a look at this sweet baby girl...

You can always check out more at visionairestudios.photoreflect.com

Have a great weekend!

xoxo,

Claire

Christmas-Life-Goals-Etc!

2007-12-19T11:04:00.000-08:00

Let the countdown begin! I'm soooo excited for Christmas this year! If anyone has a couple thou$ they want to spend on me, I would love a Canon 17-55mm f2.8 IS lense and the new I-Mac... yumy. Paul and I actually have 95% of eveyrthing bought and wrapped! Go us! This Christmas is going to be a blast.... I'm so excited for paul to open his super cool, secret, gift from me! hehehe!

On another note, things are looking really good for the new year! Dates are already filling up with senior photo sessions, weddings, bridals, family portraits and more! Thanks to all my WONDERFUL clients who are helping me spread the word! Where would I be without you guys.

Since I started Visionaire Studios 6 months ago, I've done 17 photo sessions... which averages out to ALMOST 3 a month! My goal for this time next year is at least 3 a WEEK. I'm still in the baby stages of starting my business, getting tax id's etc. There is sooo much work involved! But I'm really excited and I've never felt so right about where my life is going. I've always dreamed of being my own boss, being flexible, and doing what I love to do... for a living!

There's nothing like seeing someone smile... just from looking at a photo of themselves, their loved ones... a special moment. I'm glad I can capture a memories for people... And I look forward to doing that for a long time.

Here are some photos from a family shoot I did a couple weeks ago... This is the Koppang family! Their two sons, Issac and Isaiah, are a RIOT! I've never laughed so hard as I did with this family.

James and Jill are such great parents. We did their shoot at a park in Kansas City... So while the kids were playing, we were near by getting some time alone...

To view more, you can go to visionairestudios.photoreflect.com !

I'm Back!

2007-12-18T11:47:00.000-08:00

The past couple months have been such an amazing adventure! We've had so much snow the past couple of weeks... it's been quite a change from the 80 degree weather we had in October!

Where do I start... it's been quite a while since I've blogged! The website is underway and should be finished soon. I'm planning on getting some fun headshots with Sara Tafoya soon! I can't wait... she's really fun and an amazing photographer! She did my wedding back in June and is the one who really inspired me to pursue my passion in photography. So thanks, Sara, if you ever read this!

Sara got a Visionaire gift card for her birthday this year! Here's some of the images from our shoot... you can always check out more at visionairestudios.photoreflect.com

Here's Sara look'n sultry and beautiful...

Check out those eyes!

Love this one...

Awesome huh! She was so willing to go anywhere for these shots! Thanks for being so awesome, lady! You're shots came out great.

Check back soon for more!... I'll be back. ;)

- Claire & Visionare

White Family Photos - Weekend Adventure!

2007-11-06T11:34:00.000-08:00

What a weekend! Saturday couldn't have been more perfect for an outdoor photoshoot! It was cool, with warm sunlight penetrating fluffy white clouds and the bright fall leaves falling slowing from their branches. So pretty.

James Galbraith helped me shoot this session. We started out about an hour early since we didn't know the location very well and wanted to find "the perfect spot" before the whites trecked out to find us.

While driving to Stocksdale Park in Liberty, we passed a private lake with a sprawling house on it. the lake was GORGEOUS and the trees looked like a painting. ( To see more, visit www.visionairestudios.photoreflect and look under the White's photos ) So naturally, I had to stop and ask if we could shoot on their property. No one was home, the place looked like it hadn't been lived in in months and the mail box was stuffed to overflowing... it was very strange because the garage door was left open and there was a red Porche inside.

Anyways, since it looked deserted, we decided to trespass and shoot at this private property. The Whites arrived and it couldn't have been more perfect until the owners showed up! James pleasantly worked things out with them and they allowed us to shoot there.

The shots we got were amazing!

We all laughed about it later about our encounter with the owners.
It was such a fun fun fun time. I'll photograph the White family ANYTIME. What a great bunch!

Gorgeous family!

Josh & Mallory

2007-10-31T13:04:00.000-07:00

Their love for eachother was so inspiring. So happy and carefree! Josh and Mallory have quite the story behind their engagement and I'm so lucky to have them in my life. I've known Josh since we were both toddlers! He and his future bride to be came out to KC this past weekend. We had so much fun on a warm and sunny Sunday afternoon. Here are some of my favorite shots from the day!

They were FULL of smiles! Mallory is so sweet and beautiful...

Shannon!

2007-10-25T10:23:00.000-07:00

Shannon and I go wayyy back. She was a brides maid in my wedding and I love the fact that she wore her BM dress for a photoshoot! So fun and memorable.

We had sooo much fun running around the city! Shannon has been my friend for years and she just gets prettier every day!

Love the bright red hair!

First Blog!

2007-10-25T09:20:00.000-07:00

Things have come a long way for me since my first photoshoot!
Back in May 2006, my sister and I "kidnapped" our best friend on her birthday for a fashion photoshoot! We borrowed my dad's old 1980s 35 mil Cannon something and some film... and a digital snapshot Kodak thing. The day was an adventure to say the least.

Shortly after that, My life became overwhelmed with my editing/graphic design job, junior year college projects, and wedding planning!

I got married this June... it was a perfect wedding to the perfect man of my dreams! Paul is so supportive and wonderful and my life would be in pieces without him. I had a wonderful photographer who inspired me to pick up photography again in hopes that I could give others such a great experience and images!

Since then, I've shot weddings, portraits, events, ...it has been quite the journey. I'm curently in the process of building my website www.VisionaireStudios.com which should be up and running soon.

This will be my blog home. I want to keep up with the things that are going on in my life that help me see how far I've come and remember the wonderful experiences I've had along the way.