Guided Light Photography, LLC | South Bend, Indiana | Wedding & Senior Photography 574

Katie Whitcomb | Photographers...

2010-03-21T00:49:00.000-04:00

…is now live. Click the image to check out our new brand and site. Don’t forget to also check out our new blog. We hope you are truly as excited to see it as we were getting it ready to show so please let us know what you think about the new Katie Whitcomb Photographers image.

Merry Christmas!!!!

2009-12-25T10:17:00.001-05:00

Movie Recording 4
Originally uploaded by guided light photography

New Blogsite

2009-09-28T19:30:00.003-04:00

I am so excited to announce that we will now posting on our new blogsite. Make sure you update your following to the new url. www.glphotographyllc.com, www.guidedlightphotography.com, or www.glphotographyllc-seniors.com

amy+jeff | wedding | 9.12.09

2009-09-23T11:46:00.002-04:00

Slide show of Amy's Favorites......courtesy of Pictage.

wedding : jeff and amy 9.12.09

2009-09-17T17:39:00.001-04:00

Jeff and Amy are just so cute. I love them. We enjoyed their e-session last year and from the moment we met them we just knew their wedding would be amazing. They proved me wrong, it was FANTABULOUSLY GORGEOUS!!!!

Just take a look at her dress. I couldn't be more in love with this dress.

Don't forget about the glamourous Amy (more to come).

These beautifully flowers were done by Designs by Vogt

The Stanner's so graciously lent their lake house as the ceremony and reception venue. This house is so luxurious. I would LOVE to shoot here again.

I love how her accessories go oh so well together. Her hair piece was by Portobello Jewelry. Earrings and necklace set from JCPenny's.

Once again, my glamourous bride.

Here's Jeff and the guys hanging out. It was a ND vs. MSU game day and I know how hard it was for them to pry their eyes off the TV to take some awesome pictures. BUT, I have to say that I just love everything about these guys. They were a great bunch.

The girls all looked fabulous.

And they knew it. :)

The handsome groom.

The guys watching the game.

Amy, I love you! I just have to say that. :)

See, I told you that peeling them off the game was worth it. :)

Gotta love the simplicity of this cake from Cake Sensations by Laura

Amy was peaking out the window and saw Jeff.

I love her tears after seeing him. She has such great friends.

Amy and her dad, neither had a dry eye.

Jeff's first look at his blushing bride.

They had such a fabulous ceremony.

I love this shot of me and Amy. She's just so beautiful and happy.

This amazing team (A Grand Occasion) worked so hard to pull off an amazing event for Amy. I know that Amy would agree with me when I say that Katy & Jake are AMAZING!!

Ryan and his wife were awesome, they truly are The Simple DJs

Vendor Spotlight : Northernlight Filmworks

2009-09-17T14:03:00.001-04:00

I met this amazing couple (John and Jen Moon of Northernlight Filmworks) the day I decided to quit my job at Burkhart. I found it fascinating that they used the same equipment that a photographer does for their cinemotography. They totally rocked out our little shoot out in Indy last month. Check out the amazing video the put together. I'm in awe!!!

http://vimeo.com/6617716

Ps. Check out 2:06 minute. They got a great shot of me laughing (candid). Which is rare because I have camera radar.

Sneak Peak : Jeff and Amy 9.12.09

2009-09-15T10:59:00.001-04:00

I'm so excited to show a little sneaky peaky of the fabulous wedding that Jeff and Amy had this past weekend.... More is definitely on the way.

Grace : It means "A Gift from God"

2009-09-09T16:01:00.000-04:00

Right now, I'm sitting at the South Bend Chocolate Cafe watching my car so that no one steals my gear that I am supposed to be shooting with at this moment. I have some time to kill before my next session begins at 5pm. I am reading devotionals that I don't take the time to read on a daily basis, like I should. I am going through all the things that I need to be doing, but can't do because what I need to do it is at the house. I'm wondering, how has life gotten me to this point in my life?

All my life, I went back and forth with what I wanted to be when I grew up. I was decent at doing hair, maybe a hair stylist? I loved to cook, maybe a chef? I loved taking pictures, maybe a photographer? And don't forget the #1 dream of every little girl, I wanted to be a singer. None of these things seemed to be something I could do for a living.

I started my business in 2005, just photographing for a friend of the family. I was fresh out of high school and still wasn't sure what I was going to go to college for. Then, I did another wedding for a friend of the family in early 2006. It was then that I realized that I REALLY wanted to do this full time. I started to work at Picture People to gain experience. I could not do it. I didn't like working in a studio AT ALL. I started to give up. If I couldn't work in a studio then surely I couldn't make a living off of photography then why continue, right? Wrong. That year, I met the most amazing person I have ever met. My husband. He too had a passion for photography and wanted to help me grow my business.

When we decided that we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together, we also decided that we wanted to go into business together. But surely we BOTH couldn't make a living do so right? Wrong. Over the past 3 years of being with my wonderful husband (and best friend), he has done so much to push me and encourage me to get out the mind set that this would only be a weekend job. Well, it use to be a weekend job and I'm not really sure how some people do it, and I don't even edit the pictures. :)

As I sit here and think of what I can do without my list, without my graphics, without my family, I realize that this is what I'm suppose to be doing. God has blessed a very unfortunate situation for our family and has opened many, many doors for us. These doors would not have been so open with me working for someone else. This week is booked solid. Next week is looking pretty booked as well. I would not have been able to do this on my own, and I know that.

God has worked in mysterious ways for my family and my business. He has done so much and I have done so little to thank Him. Therefore, I give Him ALL the glory for where my life is at in this very moment. I never dreamed that I could do this. BUT, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Now, if only that strength would get me out of bed on Sundays to praise Him.

Trash That Dress

2009-09-09T12:58:00.001-04:00

In light of the trees changing colors and the weather cooling down, we are wrapping up our trash the dress sessions for the year. This could either be your wedding dress or a formal dress you wore to prom or a formal dance. We have discounted the session to $100 for $200 if booked now through October 31st. If you are brave enough to schedule your session in November, the session will be discounted to $75.

Here are just a few examples of what is to come.

My beautiful intern: Kayli

The fabulous : Mandi

See, this is how much I love these sessions. I made Chris do one of me.

My gorgeous bride : Stephanie

Last, but not least, my amazing senior rep : Tess

Newborn : Holden

2009-09-09T09:51:00.000-04:00

I use to work with Dani at Hollywood Video WAY back in the day. Jamison worked with us too, but at a different store. When Dani found me on Facebook and said she was pregnant, I was so excited to photograph this little guy's pictures. He is such a stickin' cutie too. He just kept cooing and moving and making me almost wish Bryce was a little tyke again (almost). At first, he wanted to stay awake and get to know me, and eat, but when he was ready for his close-up, he put on his charm. I just couldn't help myself in being my camera happy little self. Just take a look and decide for yourself.

Newborn : Layla

2009-09-07T18:02:00.001-04:00

You may remember Layla's lovely parents', Heather and Scott from their wedding last year. They have been our sample album couple for over a year now. Now, I get the priveledge of introducing their beautiful baby girl that recently came into the world a month ago. She is such a gorgeous little thing and I'm so excited to show off the images.

Newborn Sneak Peaks : Layla and Holden

2009-09-04T21:42:00.001-04:00

There must be something behind newborns and not wanting to fall asleep during their sessions until the last minute. Layla and Holden were too excited to want to go to sleep and everytime we tried to have them sleep, it didn't work in our behalf.

Here is just a sneak peak of little baby Layla for Heather and Scott...

...and little baby Holden for Dani and Jamison.

E-Session : Dave and Kristi

2009-09-03T18:28:00.001-04:00

Kristi and Dave called us only looking for engagement pictures. BUT, once they met with me Dave left saying that we were the photographers for them. They booked us the following week.

They have some great ideas in store for their guests and I'm excited to photograph their wedding next July.

Senior : Tre

2009-09-03T17:45:00.000-04:00

Tre came to his session in nothing but jeans and a t-shirt, but he knows how to rock them. That is why we are pleased that this football captain from Clay High School is our first 2011 Senior Ambassador.

Vendor Spotlight : Valley Screen

2009-09-02T16:13:00.002-04:00

I met Karen, President and CEO of Valley Screen, last week at a Business After Hours event for the Women Business Owner's of Michiana. As soon as she found out that I was a photographer, she couldn't wait to show me their new "baby". She had come up with an amazing idea for parents to use in nurseries. I asked her to send me some graphics so I could blog about them and let everyone give their opinions and get on board with this awesome idea.

They are removable decals for your wall. They could be phrases, poems, or even an image of your baby with some great frames that they's created.

Follow their progress in this new venture on facebook. Find them by searching for GoBigShots.

Teddy & Erin are MARRIED!!!

2009-08-31T18:38:00.003-04:00

I'm really excited to finally blog the incredible wedding of Teddy and Erin from July. They had an amazing line up of vendors that did such a beautiful job ensuring Erin's vision of the perfect dream wedding came true. From the dresses that Erin wore, the flowers that she held so elegantly, to the beautifully decorated reception hall, everything was simply perfect.

Church St. Patrick's Catholic Church

Reception Palais Royale

Band Steve Edwards Orchestra

Florist Michael Angelo's

Tuxedos Louie's Tux Shop

Wedding Dresses Demetrio's

Wedding Planner Celebrated Events

Vendor Spotlight : Celebrated Events

2009-08-27T19:23:00.003-04:00

I had the distinct pleasure of working with the incredibly talented Cynthia Basker, owner of Celebrated Events, during Erin & Teddy's gorgeous wedding. I know, I know; their images are coming, I promise! While getting to know Cyndi, I have been so encouraged by her to follow my heart and do what I know I need to do for my business and my brides. She is such an inspiration to me and I admire her business sense and professionalism.

Here is just a glimpse at her amazing talent. As a photographer, and obsessed by the details, Chris was in heaven when I sent him into The Palais Royale during the cocktail hour held in the lobby of The Morris Performing Arts Center. There are so many images to choose from so if you'd like to see more of Cyndi's masterpiece, go to Erin and Teddy's image gallery and look under the section labeled Details. You will not be disappointed.

I asked Cynthia for her advice on planning a wedding and her words of wisdom are: " to not get lost and/or caught up in the whirl of planning, and lose sight of what all the planning is for. It's easy to get wrapped up in the myriad of details that planning a wedding entails, when in reality, all you really truly need to get married, is each other."

Erin had such a wonderful day with none of the stress that can come with planning because Cynthia flawlessly put together a BEAUTIFUL wedding that Erin could enjoy. I would recommend to every bride the benefits of having a wedding planner, especially if that planner is Celebrated Events.

Carmela is 12 months

2009-08-23T13:27:00.001-04:00

I met Lara after she came back from having baby Carmela. We worked together on the TCU billboards. It wasn't until I did her little girl's 12 month pictures that I actually got the chance to meet her.

This little girl makes me want to have more kids. She is just such a sweet little girl full of smiles and giggles. Josie and I had so much fun photographing this little fire cracker. Enjoy the outcome. :)

And my FAVORITE composite I've EVER done!!!

Isn't She Fabulous?!?!

2009-08-20T15:59:00.001-04:00

Sonia, of Nicholas J. Salon, invited me to come help out with their Ambush Make-Over and take some pictures of the ever-so-beautiful, Ashley. She rightfully won as a mother of 3. Just as most mothers, she puts her kids' needs ahead of her own. Her mom heard about the make-over and entered her to win. Already a very beautiful woman, Holly and Rebecca did a beautiful job of enhancing her beauty.

With Jennifer Love Hewitt in the Ghost Whisperer as the inspiration, Ashley got a look that is not only flattering on her, but very easy to maintain.

Great Job ladies.

Joey and Jules are married!!!

2009-08-20T11:03:00.001-04:00

Jules called me in May wanting to see our work in person. She was living in California with Joey and couldn't make it out until Memorial Day weekend, but really wanted to see how we could fit her budget. After deciding she had to have us, we started the process of making her day PERFECT. Since we didn't have a lot of time to get to know one another, we did our best to make it work. I met with her at the Blue Heron and met the FABULOUS Jenny. We worked on the schedule of the day and we made she sure it worked perfectly for the Blue Heron too. Jules was so easy to work with and wanted us to use our experience to make her day special.

I am so excited to say that her day was simply flawless and I hope everything was exactly how she imagined it.

FINALLY!!

2009-08-20T10:12:00.001-04:00

In the past few months, I have wanted to blog about my feelings. Unfortunately, once I blogged them, they were pretty much out there for the world. Well, now I am able to tell everyone.

If you have been following me on facebook you will know what this blog has lead to. For those that haven't, I will tell you, just in case.

In the past month, we found out that Bryce is a little behind on his developmental skills. He is in the process of developmental therapy through the first steps program. I have chosen a therapist for him that will help him learn to talk and work through his aggression. As a mom, I have understandably blamed myself for being so busy with work and the business.

I have also made a few changes in who I am as well. When I went back to work, I never quite got a grasp on balancing work, the business, and my family. My business was growing to new heights that I never thought that I could take it to, and I was having a hard time keeping up. My faith took the biggest back seat out of everything. I could feel God pulling me toward him, I just kept resisting. It was time for me to take that step of faith and follow him once again.

God had been giving me signs here and there about where he wanted me to be. He kept pointing me home. After meeting with many vendors in the industry, including fellow (and fabulous) wedding photographers and hearing how they, "just took that leap of faith", I decided that home is where I needed to take that leap of faith. After A LOT of praying, I felt God was telling me that now is my time to trust Him.

Well, I did. Now, I am home working harder than ever to make sure that my brides get the best of me. Please be patient though. I'm still trying to catch up. You can expect to see more blog posts and LOTS of new things.

Stay tuned for some fabulous additions to GLP.

Sneak Peak for Jules

2009-08-11T07:28:00.001-04:00

I fell so in love with Jules and I just couldn't wait to post a few of my favorite images that I took. Stay tuned, more to come.

LA and Emily are married

2009-08-02T09:06:00.001-04:00

I sometimes hear the best stories about how the bride and groom met while the girls are getting ready, but let me tell you, the entries from LA's diary that his sister was re-telling left me in stitches. I won't tell you what they said, sorry, but let's just say that his love for Emily started when they were in the 8th grade.

Eventually, Emily noticed LA and decided that he just might a cool kid afterall. Whatever tricks he had up his sleeve worked as she is now madly in love with him.

Congratulations LA and Emily! You're finally married.

My Beautiful Wife

2009-07-29T12:28:00.001-04:00

Piece and Quiet

2009-07-27T18:51:00.001-04:00

This is my favorite time of the day. I get so excited to take my lunch because it's 60 minutes that I can enjoy to myself working on what makes me smile, my business. I love coming down to the riverwalk byt the Farmer's Market and sit on the rock steps and watch the river move by me, listening to the dogs being walked behind me, and the kids walking with mom and dad. It seems to be the perfect moment in such a fast paced world.

Chris and I decided that in order to get those moment with our family again, we were going to work on down sizing our tasks. I have picked up some responsibilities of editing and designing, along with purchasing a new Dell Mini netbook so that I can work on the administrative part on my lunch. Right now, I am working on getting it set up, but it is enjoyable to know that I will have more time to spend with the kids and instead of telling Josie to wait until I'm done updating the accounting, I can play our new favorite game, Barbie, Queen of the Prom, the moment she asks.

Don't get me wrong, I've had this opportunity before, but our old laptop couldn't hold nearly as much information as I required it to have. I am in total awe of this computer. Maybe because it's my own and there is something about purchasing a product with cold hard cash that you personally worked your tail off to obtain that sets you on cloud 9 when using it.

On a side note: I was just told that I am doing what a classly like myself should be doing on a beautiful day like today. What a nice thing to be said.

On a family note: Bryce will be 2 years old on September 16th. I can't believe how quickly time has flown by. I wish he would start to talk. He isn't as responsive when you call his name as I'd like him to be, but that could just be a kid-thing. I have heard over and over again that I should look into getting his hearing tested and maybe even get tubes put in his ears. I'm not sure about the tubes part, but he has an appointment on Thursday morning to find out what is going on with him.

I suppose that's it for now. I need to get a few things accomplished before my meeting this evening. Stay tuned, I will be blogging more often now that I will have my Mini on me at all times. :)

Happy Monday!

It's a Sister Thing

2009-07-26T22:28:00.001-04:00

Misty and I work at Burkhart Advertising together. She's in Marion so I don't get to see her but maybe 2 or 3 times a year. When Misty told me that she was going to have a baby, I was so excited, I couldn't contain myself. Then, she continued to tell me that 3 of the 4 sisters in her family were also pregnant, due around the same time. How exciting is that?

When Misty said that her sister's wanted to get some pictures taken with them and then all the grandkids, I couldn't resist. Even though it started to rain on us, we picked the perfect location for a gazebo to not ruin our fun.

Look how cute these kids are. I can't wait to see the babies in the next few weeks.

Teddy and Erin are gettin' hitched

2009-07-07T00:24:00.004-04:00

I knew Erin in middle school. She was always the pretty girl with a huge personality. The biggest Notre Dame I've known (sorry guys, pretty sure she beats you out in that #1 fan thing).

When my mom posted our old cheer leading picture on facebook, I had to tag her. After talking about her wedding a little and looking at our albums, Erin decided that Chris and I were the ones she wanted to photograph her wedding. I'm so glad to because her wedding is going to be fabulous and she's going to have an awesome guest book too. :)

Here are just a few imges that will be featured in her guest book.

Ryan and Brittney are finally married

2009-07-07T00:12:00.006-04:00

Ryan and Brittney have one of those fair tale stories that just draw into them. They started out as high school sweet hearts and then decided to see other people when we were accepted to different colleges in different cities. After missing each other so much, they realized, that they would battle all odds and re-kindle their romance they had in high school. After tricking her a few times into thinking he was proposing, Ryan finally popped the questions. Two years of engagement, a graduation, and a lot of love and support from friends and family and Ryan and Brittney are FINALLY married. I just love all of their pictures, I can't just choose a few so here are only SOME of my faves.

James and Jenny are Married!!!

2009-07-07T00:07:00.003-04:00

This couple is just too cute. I have had the pleasure of getting to know them as they planned their wedding, designed their save the dates, and every other detail about their day. To my surprise, James came to EVERY meeting, ready to help make the final decision for Jenny. They are such a perfect match. Here are only a few images from the June wedding.

Henry and Burke are Baptised!

2009-07-06T23:53:00.005-04:00

Deanna called me one day looking for someone to document her beautiful little boy's baptism a few weekends ago. A sucker for babies, I couldn't say no. To our surprise, Deanna's cousin and his wife baptized their baby at the same time.

Emily's Senior Experience

2009-06-07T18:18:00.001-04:00

Kelsi's Senior Experience

2009-06-06T13:27:00.001-04:00

Kelsi's Senior Session

2009-06-01T17:17:00.001-04:00

Kelsi accompanied her B.F.F., Emily, to her senior session and decided she wanted me to do her senior session too. What an eventful one at that.

First, we wanted some "in the water" shots...

...and then some flowers...

...and then we decided it might be fun to play on the tracks. Let me tell you, that was not fun. It started out perfect with the train flying by...

...and some cool ballerina feet...

...and she had the same idea I had to show off her back lace, before...

...a train tried to run us over. True story. I'm boycotting train tracks for a while. We ended with some very pretty images...

Liz & Steve are engaged!

2009-05-31T19:59:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I had the privilege of spending the evening with Liz and Steve. They are such a cute couple and they are going to have a beautiful life together. I am so excited to have the chance to get to know them better in the moments I was able to document just how much they are in love. With every little giggle from Liz and every penguin joke from Steve, they are the perfect pair.

Emily & L.A. are engaged!

2009-05-31T18:46:00.001-04:00

I had the priveldge of getting lost in Elkhart (again) with Emily and L.A. They are such a cute couple and were up for anything. First, we started at a door and ended up inside this cute little shop. We found a few alleys and ran through the streets, all to get the following images. I can't wait until their July 4th wedding. It's going to be fabulous. :)

Emily's Senior Session

2009-05-25T00:08:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to show off these images. Emily has an amazing beauty about her and just shines in these images. She came in, knew what she had in mind, and I put my spin on it. Together, our calibration came out looking like something from a magazine. I LOVE these images.

my absolute FAVE of the day!!!

Mandi's Mock Senior Session

2009-05-19T23:28:00.001-04:00

Mandi is one of those rare gems that you find unexpectedly. She agreed to model for me to help build my portfolio for my senior website, which is set to launch this week. We had plenty of time to talk and get to know one another because I got us lost in Elkhart. She is also a fellow photographer and is going to school for graphic design. This girl has plans to go places, there is no doubt in my mind that she will get there.

Thanks again for being such a beautiful model Mandi! We should definitely work together again!

Dan + Jenni are MARRIED!!!!

2009-05-19T21:45:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to introduce Mr. and Mrs. Dan Godfrey.

Kayli's Senior Session

2009-05-18T22:27:00.002-04:00

I was so excited when my intern said she was ready to do her senior session. She is absolutely stunning and I love her. Check her out!

Car Wheels

2009-05-16T02:03:00.001-04:00

I remember when I was 3 weeks away from Bryce's due date. I never had an ultrasound so I didn't know what I was having. I had greens and yellows all around me and I loved it. I would walk into his room, rub my belly and look into his crib, wondering what his face would look like. Would it be a boy or a girl? Who will it look like most (Chris won that one, by the way)?

He's 20 months old now and I look at how much he has grown. He definitely has my trait of needing to be self taught. He's very stubborn, and throws a mean temper tantrum. But then, he has moments like this. I just have to say, I am very proud to say he is my beautiful baby boy.

Has it really been that long?

2009-05-11T22:29:00.000-04:00

This year is just screaming by. It's hard to believe that it's just about the middle of May. We are getting ready to dive head first into weddings season. We've done 3 so far this year, and they came out fabulous. I'm so excited!

This year, I have decided to have a different outlook on things. First, as Jasmine Star would say, "I am DETERMINED" to be home working full time by the end of the year (at the latest). I just feel like this is my calling. God has done so much in my life and has taught me a lot while working for Burkhart, but when the day is over, I get to juggle my family and business. We've made it work this far, but I want to put my everything into making my clients look amazing.

Second, I am launching my senior line REALLY soon so I have been working like a mad man editing, designing, shooting, creating, (insert cliche word here) to get a website up and running. I am so anxious! It's going to be FABULOUS!!!!

Lastly, I am working on a new marketing piece that I'm psyched out of my mind about. I can't wait to share it with all of you, but you will just have to wait until I launch it.

adam+torrie | gallery

2009-05-08T18:48:00.002-04:00

The images for this incredible wedding are now available for all to enjoy: https://guidedlightphotography.nextproof.com/session/new

Tess | Senior Session

2009-04-29T19:14:00.002-04:00

Fun with Sissy

2009-04-26T16:00:00.003-04:00

My sister and I took all 5 of our kids to the park. The kids had so much and I'm ready to nap with them. The breeze is just wonderful today so the park only made sense. It was a nice way to end a wonderful weekend with Josie. There were a few banged up knees and a few bloody lips, but that's just a sign of how much fun we all had.

Adam + Torrie are MARRIED!!!

2009-04-25T12:40:00.002-04:00

This couple is by far, an amazing couple. I always enjoy listening to the toasts and hearing what the couple means to everyone. This couple was so spectacular that they had me in tears and anxious for Torrie to come down the aisle. It was like my own wedding all over again.

I'm pleased to announce the long awaited sneak peak! ENJOY!!!!

Help me reach my goal!Sponsor Me at March for Babies!

2009-04-25T12:15:00.000-04:00

Tess' Senior Session

2009-04-16T22:32:00.001-04:00

I was so excited when Tess was up for being one of my senior models. This is one awesome girl. She will be moving to NYC in August with the FABULOUS Kyle. I think it's so great that she's going for her dreams. You can be sure that this girl is going places. I think she should team up with Kyle and get into modeling. What a gorgeous gal!

Turns out that looking like an idiot in front of your client's pays off. I love this smile.

She even got in the water to "Trash the Formal".

State Theatre

2009-04-11T20:14:00.001-04:00

I was excited when Christi said she was putting together a fun shoot (or "formally known as fun shoot") at the State Theatre in Downtown South Bend. I've always wondered what it looked like on the inside. There was SO much to do there to work with and I didn't even get into all the areas. Here is just a sneak peak at how the shoot turned out. Thanks again Christi!

Blast from the Past

2009-04-11T19:49:00.001-04:00

My childhood friend contacted me one day to have me shoot her 3 adorable girls. They were so cute and I had so much fun watching them play with Bryce while Mary and I caught up a little. I can't get over JUST how much Lexi look like Mary. WOW!

Keeping It Real....

2009-04-10T11:16:00.001-04:00

Wedding Albums

2009-04-05T00:09:00.000-04:00

I am so excited about our line of products we are offering this year. After using a few different album companies, I have finally found the company I am excited about. Not only are these absolutely beautiful albums, but the quality is second to none.

Manicures

2009-04-04T15:41:00.000-04:00

Josie and I went to the nail salon today and got our nails done. This was the first time she had ever done it, and she let everyone know. "I've never done this before. This is cool." As she eagerly watched the manicurist put a full set on my nails, she picked out her nail polish, and mine, and antispated what it would be like for her manicure. While waiting for her nails to dry, I still wasn't done. So, she sat with the other women at the dryer and all the women thought it was so cool that she got to experience something so cool. She said next time we have to get our toes done.

Tribute to Grandpa

2009-04-02T19:14:00.000-04:00

April 2nd has always been a day that I try my hardest not to be sad. You see, today is my grandfather's birthday. He was such a strong man who was well liked and respected by the community.

In 1987, Grandpa had a heart attack while getting ready for church one morning. While in the hospital recuperating, he enjoyed having family and friends come in to support him. My mother was 8 months pregnant with me at the time. Even though he couldn't talk and express his desires, he would look at her stomach with anticipation of having one more grandchild before he went up to Heaven.

He has been gone for 22 years now and I miss him just the same. Though I wish I would've met him, I have finally come to terms with the thought that he lived such a beautiful and full life. He was active in his community and loved people dearly.

So, without further ado. Happy Birthday, Grandpa! We all miss you dearly and look forward to joining you in Heaven one day.

Kyle

2009-03-29T01:12:00.000-04:00

Kyle is quite the model. Once August comes around, it will only be a matter of time until he is highlighted in the next big Broadway tour. With some singing and acting behind his belt, I can only hope he remembers us when he becomes the famous and FABULOUS Broadway star.

This is the first of a few sessions we will be doing in order to build his comp cards to spread all over NY-no pressure for me. :).

Melissa

2009-03-29T01:05:00.001-04:00

Melissa is an up-and-coming stylist. She has truly been blessed with a gift of making others beautiful. She is currently with the girls at Artistic Hair, but also has a boutique in her home. We did some portraits for marketing pieces, but I thought I'd share my favorite of her. You'll have to visit her soon to see the rest.

Kendra

2009-03-29T01:05:00.000-04:00

I first met Kendra as a flower girl in one of our August weddings. She was the cutest little girl. She was so grown up for her age too. I called her mom and asked if she would be interested in modeling for me as I build my portfolio. We had so much fun. Here's a sneak peak of the pictures I took yesterday.

Matt & Lindahl

2009-03-22T19:30:00.001-04:00

Here's a sneak peak of what you can expect of GLP in this upcoming wedding season. Thanks to Matt and Lindahl for your help in being my models. You were amazing!

adam+amber sneak-peak | march 14 2009

2009-03-19T23:03:00.001-04:00

…more to come!

Open Sessions

2009-03-17T21:31:00.001-04:00

We are scheduling the first of many open sessions this weekend to build our portrait portfolio. These sessions won't have a sitting fee.

Starting April 1, I will start charing a sitting fee of $15 for kids/families and senior collections will start at $50.

If you or someone you know would be interested, please have them give me a call at 574.855.0581 to schedule a session.

I've Got the Itch

2009-03-07T16:56:00.001-05:00

With the weather teasing us the past few days, I've been anxious to get outside and photograph. As I look outside when I'm at work, or look across the street at Celebrated Events and see the fabulous Cynthia Basker sweeping all the rock salt from her sidewalk, I want to walk out the door, grab my camera and go photograph.

Chris and I have decided to expand our business into more portrait photography. We are offering free sittings through the month of March. These sittings must be booked in March or April. Starting April 1, we will have full priced session fees of $15 for children, $25 for families and maternity, and $50 for seniors. Here is a sample of what you can expect to see more of in the coming days.

Nothing but Laughter

2009-03-03T12:11:00.001-05:00

Sometimes we all just need a break. I found that to be true last week when I took a half day on Friday. I met with an awesome couple, started the taxes process, and relaxed with Bryce and Chris while we waited for Josie to come home. It's in those moments that I was able to step back and count my blessings for such a AMAZING family God has given to me. Here are only two people of the many that make me smile when I think about them.

The First Look Myth

2009-02-27T19:57:00.001-05:00

I have always found it amazing some of the tidbits of information that my wonderful hubby finds. Did you know that the tradition of not seeing your spouse before the ceremony started with arranged marriages. The father of the bride was concerned that if the groom saw the bride before the wedding, he'd run away (gee, thanks dad).

Although we respect a couple's decision to have their first look during the ceremony, we offer first hand experience that sharing your first look prior and alone is so much better. For me, it was that sacred moment when Chris was able to really look at me in my dress and really tell me what he thought not only with words but the look in his eyes It was an opportunity to breathe together and pray together one last time before we joined our lives.

The first look also helps with scheduling your day too. If you are having your formals taken after the ceremony then you are rushed to get to your guests at the reception and you can loose out on your photographer's best work. We invite you take advantage of the opportunity to see one another in an intimate setting with just the two of you before the pictures, ceremony, and the day's events. For most brides and grooms who have opted for their time alone say that out of all the events of the day, that's the one they remember and cherish the most.

Fashion Shoot

2009-02-27T19:24:00.001-05:00

I had so much fun with Stephanie and Kayli this past Saturday. I think we came a way with some great shots and it was a good experience. I will let the photographs speak for themselves.

After Stephanie left, Kayli grabbed a few rare moments for me.

Running in Circles

2009-02-20T22:58:00.001-05:00

I don't have much to say about these pictures, but I have to post them because I love them.

Bryce was "helping" us clean the studio, more like running in circles, and felt Kayli stole the spot light. We put him on the rocking chair and stole some great images. Kayli took the first one. TOO CUTE!!!!!!

Fashion Forward

2009-02-20T22:14:00.001-05:00

I had this master plan to do a fashion shoot downtown this weekend to train my intern my vision for our upcoming wedding season. However, we are expecting 8 inches of snow tonight. Though it may be fun to trample in the snow, I decided we would turn this into a studio session so we can go all out fashion.

I had Kayli over this evening to help me clean up the studio since I haven't been down there to photograph in quite some time, definitely not since it flooded. So, we trudged through the dungeon and cleaned it up. There is still some work that needs to be done, but that will have to wait for another time.

After we cleaned, I wanted to set the new backdrop up and set up lighting. So now, I'd like introduce my amazing intern, Kayli.

Transform by Zack Arias

2009-02-19T18:36:00.001-05:00

Sometimes you find something so powerful that you have to stop and listen, even if it hurts, even if its true, even if you don’t want to…..but in the end, your a better person for taking the time. Thank you Zack for this much needed reality check!

2008 all wrapped up

2009-02-17T22:03:00.002-05:00

I am in the process of finding all the pictures we took of the kids and family over the past year. My computer is so unorganized since we bought Chris a new one and moved ALMOST everything his. I found some great images of my sister's kids at the ball park and my liitle BMW riding his BMW for the first time. I'll be posting more and more pictures of 2008 in the coming days as I sift through and choose my favorites. Don't worry!!! I've got quite a bit in store for the wedding images we haven't posted as well, more on that to come.

Adam+Torrie | E-Session

2009-02-16T22:03:00.001-05:00

Adam and Torrie are so cute together. I followed them on one of their dates recently and had the pleasure of seeing just how beautiful their love is. It always amazing me how couples spend their dates. Something as simple as a walk and feeding the birds means something to this couple. I am honored to have been a part of their date. Can't WAIT for their wedding!

Valentines Day Tribute

2009-02-14T14:05:00.001-05:00

I don’t do this often enough but I must say, to the world no less, that my wife is a true gift from God. She is the support that I have been blessed with to help me make our way in this world and the constant reminder to slow down and savor the moments that matter. We wouldn’t be where we are if it was not for her focus, dedication and loyalty not just to me but to our heavenly father as well. The highest compliment I think I say about her is she strives everyday, with the utmost of her ability to be a Proverbs 31 woman. And I love her!

Closing 2009

2009-02-09T23:02:00.000-05:00

It is so bittersweet going through the images from our first year. I have been devoted to picking my absolutes and posting them on Facebook, Chris is still working on his.

As I finish closing out 2008 in accounting, I am reminded of how great of a year we had. We had the most amazing brides and booked some amazing brides to grace us with their beauty in 2009.

This past year has been wonderful and I am honored and blessed to be able to say that it was amazing start to the rest of my career. Each one of my brides have taught me something about life, love, and happiness. It gleams off of them and penetrates your heart. It's like the fairy tales that never come true. Their fairy tales have come true and I'm blessed to have been apart of each and every one of their tales.

Our wonderful intern, Kayli, has joined us on 2 weddings and 1 engagment session this past year. I haven't been able to teach her the way I wanted to. So, going into 2009, I'm going to practice my new outlook on photography and train her at the same time so understands why I'm doing what I'm doing. I am so excited about this new outlook and truely believe that it will take us to a completely new level.

Lastly, I would like to introduce the cuteste little salon my cousin works at Artistic Hair. I was introduced to it by my cousin, but I found this cute little boutique tucked away as a secret that MUST come out. When you go, ask for Melissa, she's amazing.

That's it for tonight, here's to a great beginning for Guided Light Photography, LLC.

True Love

2009-01-27T15:22:00.000-05:00

I think it's only fitting with the career path we have chosen and the time of year we are coming upon to post a blog about L.O.V.E.

This is my favorite topic, because I always had a fairly tale kind of mind where I just wanted to be loved. When I was little, it was my daddy, but he handed me off to be loved by a wonderfully loving man.

My mother-in-law bought us a book for Christmas called "Night Light:A couple's devotional" by Dr. James Dobson. We have only just started the book, but it has been so exciting to start this journey. In the first, very powerful, devotional we were asked a question. What is true love? Wow! Talk about thrown off guard. Going back to my fairy tale mind, I wanted to say things like "being whisked off your feet under the moonlit sky", "having your foot pop like they do in the old movies when a girl has her first kiss", or "my prince riding up on his white horse and rescuing me from the big scary dragon." Who does this really happen to? My thoughts began to turn to the big girl in me. Love is sacrificing all things to someone. It doesn't have to be materialistic things, it doesn't even have to be "feet sweeping", it does have be self-less.

I am very fortunate to have found a wonderful man that I can call my husband. He has held me up when I couldn't stand up on my own. He has supported me in my endeavor to start my own business, including sharing the same passion I have for this career. He has become my biggest fan no matter what I do. I am very Blessed to say that God has given him to me.

I love you, my darling!

"Ma-Ma"

2009-01-11T22:59:00.001-05:00

Bryce has been saying "ma ma ma ma" over and over lately. Today, he just looked at me and said "ma ma". It was such a joyous occasion. I love watching and hearing him grow into this new person he has become. Chris documented a specific part in the day yesterday when I was trying to work and he demanding my attention. Of course he got, who wouldn't give it to this little monster. He would never let me ignore him, he'd push me away from whatever it is if I did.

With his last two teeth coming in (can you believe it?), he has been very clingy and sweet. Chris noticed how sweet Bryce was being with me and just how much all he wanted to do was have mommy hold him. So, out came the camera. This collection of images really tells the story of our relationship.

I love Bryce kisses!!!!!

He likes the aquarium on my monitor.

My Little Drummer Boy

2009-01-11T00:02:00.001-05:00

I don't think it's any secret how much I love my kids. They make the little things seems so magnificant and wonderful.

Lately, Bryce has been such a joy to be around. I feel so blessed to be his mommy. With having a 3 month break in our wedding season, I have been able to step back from my desk and BE his mommy. Our favorite game we like to play is soccer. I'll kick the ball and we race to see who gets it first. When I get it, I scoop it up and run into his room. Knowing he's not far behind, I hide so I can throw it at him. Don't worry, it's a plush soccer ball that has brought joy to my sisters kids too.

When he's alone, though, he really proves how smart he is. He's such an investigator. His drum sticks are almost always in his hands and he's always banging on things. His most recent hurtle, was realizing his toys could talk to one another. Before I went to work on Tuesday, I grabbed his buffalo and made it "rar, rar" at him. He thought that was funny. Well, Chris heard him growling. When he found him, Bryce was making his toys talk to one another.

That's my boy!

Bryce, meet Snow

2009-01-10T23:45:00.001-05:00

Going with my snow theme today, I decided to get Bryce all bundled up for a quick walk outside in the snow. Lee and Jan, doesn't this just make you want to come back for a visit? :)

After falling facing first, and mommy throwing him into the snow, we had a lot of fun. I didn't like the cold flakes on his face or tongue. Oh well, we had fun anyways. Enjoy!

SNOW!

2009-01-10T11:14:00.001-05:00

I love being trapped in on a snow day. As I look out my window in my office, I can't help but notice just how much it's snowing. It's beautiful! Last night, I couldn't take it anymore, I had to grab my camera and take a late night walk. I didn't have to walk to far before I was shown the beauty in God's creation. To think, EVERY snowflake is different is so unbelievable. I especially love the footprints our bunnies make in the snow as the scamper and play.

ENJOY!

The NEW Website

2009-01-04T22:17:00.001-05:00

We are so excited to announce the launch of our new website...

Check it out... www.glphotographyllc.com

Teddy & Erin : e-session

2009-01-04T21:25:00.001-05:00

Erin and I met in middle school at good old Christian Center. After going to different high schools in 10th grade, we lost touch. We recently found each other on Facebook after my mother had posted a picture of us in our cheerleading gear. Those were the days!

After deciding to give us the privilege of photographing their wedding, we got together to photograph them for their save the date cards. I am so excited to photograph their wedding this summer. Stay tuned this spring, as we will be photographing their engagement session then.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T10:38:00.001-05:00

The kids had so much fun opening their gifts. "This is the BEST Christmas EVER!" - Josie. Bryce knew exactly which Santa gift was his, and of course it's one of Josie's favorites.

Christmas Eve

2008-12-25T10:20:00.001-05:00

I had the pleasure of getting off at noon yesterday to go see my dad's side of the family for Christmas. Since Chris had a deadline for Saturday's wedding, he stayed home to finish up so he could spend all the time he could with Josie while she was with us over Christmas break.

Wedding Coordinator vs. Wedding Planner

2008-12-18T09:56:00.000-05:00

There is a fantastic article at the WeddingBee Pro blog regarding the difference between the two and the benefits of each. I can say that as a photographer, working with a planner or coordinator makes my job so much easier because the bride and groom are not as stressed on their big day. The coordinator and planner, but especially the planner, gives all involved such a piece of mind that everything is taken care of, even if little problems do arise, leaving the couple and their families to enjoy the wedding to the fullest. If you want this kind of assurance for your wedding, give Cynthia Basker at look at Celebrated Events as she's been Michiana's premier planner, planning stylish affairs for years.

Why do wedding photo's take so long?

2008-12-10T09:25:00.000-05:00

This is a fantastic article explaining to a real bride why wedding photo's take so long to be seen. I will not try to explain anything as the article explains it so well, enjoy.

http://www.weddingbeepro.com/2008/12/09/why-do-wedding-photos-take-so-long/

Appreciation

2008-12-06T17:11:00.001-05:00

Sometimes I have a hard time visualizing how someone came up with something. I saw a wicker basket with magazines in it yesterday. Whoever came up with how to make one was a genious. As I sat there and studied how it was made, I thought of the woman that first figured out if she twisted sticks a certain way, she could make something useful for her daily tasks. I'm sure as the years went by, more and more women (if not men) developed the wicker basket into what we have today.

It has always amazed me how things work or how things came about. When I was younger, I took my dad's tape measure into the bathroom and took it apart, just to see how it worked. After an hour of trying to put it back together, I had to call in some reinforcements. My brother couldn't figure out how to put it back together either. I still don't know that I figured out how it worked.

PHOTOGRAPHY! I think it's such an awesome tool that Louis-Jacques-Mande Daguerre invented in 1827. How did he come up with it? What made him think "I bet I could make this image stand still."?

I think our society can under appreciate what the inventors of the past created. Look how far we have come with everything. Even photography used be only something a family would do once in blue moon (usually). Only professionals had a camera. Now, every wedding I photograph, there are at least 3 people with their cameras just as glued to their eye as mine is.

Everything has been made to be obtained and understood by everyone, but how many times do we sit back and appreciate the art of everything. A photograph shouldn't just be a photograph, it should be a memory that you want to keep forever.

-Katie

My Little Engineer

2008-11-30T19:31:00.001-05:00

No pictures of Bryce yet. He's not cooperating this weekend. I do have a great story to share that left Chris and I in stitches last night.

Bryce went to bed rather early last night. In the middle of our milk and cookies, Bryce decided to wake up (how convenient, right?). When we were done with our milk, he decided he would confiscate our cups and use them as musical instruments, stacking, suck out whatever drops he possibly could, and wear as a hat.

As I was laying on the couch, he decided to play quietly on the side by my tummy. I didn't pay too much attention, but decided to look down to see what he was doing.

As the cup would fall with each breath I took, he'd pick it back up and place it upright. He did this a couple times before I had to decide to either hold my breath or re-situate so he could accomplish it. He would normally start crying at this point out of frustration that it wouldn't stay put.

Anyways, I re-situated and Bryce finally was able to make both cups sit up straight at the same time. "YA!!!" I had to clap for him, he's so smart. He looked at daddy and wondered why he wasn't clapping.

Over to daddy he went to grab his hands and make him clap for doing such a great job. He was going to be happy with nothing short of a standing ovation. After that, anything he did, he grabbed daddy's hands and made him clap. Of course, I'm laughing hysterically and Bryce has a HUGE grin on his face that my heart melts for.

This has been such a wonderful weekend, although none of us felt very good. I have enjoyed every second of my son and husband.

Ps. Bryce just took all the towels out of our towel box so he could sit in it.

Rylee

2008-11-30T18:55:00.001-05:00

This is my BEAUTIFUL niece, Rylee. She's such a little princess.

Meet Aden. He had a little green eyed monster syndrome. Rylee loved it though.

These two would protect each other from their mother if they had to.

He Has Arrived!!!

2008-11-27T08:59:00.001-05:00

This is a little late in getting posted, but I'd rather post it late, then not at all.

Logan Thomas Whitcomb was born Monday, November 3, 2008. He's is just the cutest little thing and I wish I could go down to Florida to hold him. We are so happy for our son, Christopher, and his fiance, Jaymee, with the arrival of their first child.

Don't worry, Jan, I'm going to post some of Bryce this weekend. I will also be photographing his 1 year old pictures and next weekend, I'll get some with both kids.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Wagoner Babes

2008-11-23T22:39:00.001-05:00

My cousin's kids are so adorable and LOVE the camera. I'll let the pictures do the talking.

Mothers and More

2008-11-23T13:53:00.001-05:00

For the second year in a row, Mothers and More asked us to photograph the formal portraits at their halloween party. The kids looked awesom and we had so much fun making them laugh. Look at all their great costumes.

Maure Family

2008-11-23T13:40:00.001-05:00

Erin contacted me wanting some different family portraits of her and her son. When she told me she had a 200lb Great Dane, I was not expected him to big as big as he was. For some reason, I had in my head a big lab. Ayres was a trip to get to take a picture. Erin and Paxton had a blast and their images came out amazing. They are such a beautiful family.

James & Jenny : E-Session

2008-11-23T13:35:00.001-05:00

Jenny and James were true sports for this session. It was cold and raining and yet they were still willing to run around campus to get some great shots for their save the date cards. Poor James even had to miss his Norte Dame game to do this session. I give him two thumbs up for putting up with me for as long as he did. It paid off, because ther turned out great.

Stephanie's TTD

2008-11-23T13:28:00.001-05:00

Stephanie has done everything in her power to find a reason to have us photograph something for her. When she said she wanted to do a Trash the Dress, I was so excited. It was such a perfect day for it too. She would've been up for anything, but we turned into more of a bridal session. I LOVE how they turned out.

Generations

2008-11-23T13:17:00.001-05:00

Jackie contacted us after meeting us at one of our weddings and asked us to take a generations photograph of her mother, herself, her daughter, and her two grand-daughters just before the oldest went to college. It was such a pleasure to bring joy to this family through this image. It's moments like this that remind me over and over why I became a photographer.

Wipf Family

2008-11-23T12:04:00.001-05:00

This family was also another family that took Bryce in during this summer's wedding bliss season. They were a great family to work with and have such beautiful children.

Sommers Family

2008-11-23T11:56:00.001-05:00

With all of our weddings this summer and fall, I can finally catch up on posting a bunch of pictures. Are you ready to be bombarded?

The Sommers Family gratiously welcomed Josie and Bryce into their home while we photographed one of our many wonderful weddings. In return, we photographed their beautiful family. I'll let the images speak for themselves.

Ryan+Brittney | E-session

2008-10-14T09:50:00.001-04:00

I'm letting the images do all the talking!

Jeff+Amy | E-Session

2008-10-14T06:39:00.001-04:00

We had such an incredible time with Jeff & Amy at Jeff's parents two fabulous homes. Thank you guys for a great time and being so willing to do what it took to get the picture. I usually post Katie & my favorites but Amy picked her's, and well, they pretty much are ours as well.

Todd+Nicole: Married!

2008-10-04T20:43:00.001-04:00

Duval Wedding First Dance.....so cool!

2008-10-03T09:18:00.000-04:00

Greg+Amy: Date Session

2008-09-27T00:44:00.001-04:00

Greg and Amy are such a cool couple, and a perfect match for one another. They are having an outdoor wedding, which is perfect since both of them love being in nature. So for our first Date Session, we followed them around their neighborhood for lack of a better word. Then we got pretty involved with directing them and they also had some great ideas of their own. We had a great time getting to know them, and I just can't wait for their wedding day.