Let the Countdown Begin…
School is almost out and Summer is just around the corner. We have had some crazy weather around here… hot, cold, rainy… we never know what to expect. We do however know that Austin Summers are out-of-this-world HOT, which is why now is the best time for photos. In the midst of our Countdown to Summer, I have decided to bless 1 very special person with a free session, plus 5 others with the chance to book a session for half-off… that’s right, HALF-OFF! Gosh, I just LOVE giveaways. (You will find instructions below on how to enter.)
You may be thinking to yourself, “We could really use some updated family photos, but I could probably just use our nice camera and it wouldn’t cost a dime.”
This is true, but I am here to tell you that unfortunately, they will not look the same. There are some very nice, smart, affordable cameras out there that do a great job, but you will not get the same end results. It is not always as simple as it looks. Read HERE to see what I’m talking about.
How do I enter to win??
1 – You must ‘like’ us on Facebook… facebook.com/coatiphotography
2 – To win the FREE photo session, you must be the very first person to e-mail me. Tell me how you would use your free session.
3 – The first 5 people to e-mail me (after the winner) will receive HALF-OFF a photo session.
E-mail: info{at}coati photography{dot}com
GET TO IT PEOPLE!!
Spring Mini-Sessions {austin family photographer}
Despite the weather being insanely crazy lately (what’s new?)… Spring time is on it’s way! Which means that our Spring Mini-Sessions are quickly approaching! We will be offering a limited number of 45 minute time slots between the dates of March 13th thru March 27th. We will be offering them at a discounted rate, which means they will fill up quickly, so we encourage you to book your session sooner than later. :)
Spring Mini-Sessions:
$175
45 minute photo session on location
DVD including 15-30 high resolution images
Print Release
For more information, just send me a quick little note: info{at}coati photography{dot}com
Day 17 {Bryan, Michelle & Jessie}
Today I met up with Michelle, Bryan, and their adorable pup. What started as a “30 days” photo turned into almost a full shoot, because let’s be honest… these 3 are PRECIOUS, and I just couldn’t help myself!
Kendall + Erin {austin anniversary photographer}
It’s no secret around here that anniversary sessions are my new favorite… and this one is most definitely no exception. Kendall and Erin are celebrating their one year anniversary by traveling back to their honeymoon destination. Count me as jealous. So, in going with that theme, why not go back to their wedding location for their anniversary photos? Kendall and Erin were married at Three Points Ranch, located just outside of Austin in Round Mountain, Texas. Although I am familiar with this venue, I had never been. Let me tell you, if I had our wedding to do all over again, this would be THE location. Beautiful.
The Switch {austin lifestyle + portrait photographer}
Hello there!
After much thought, I have decided to make The Switch. What exactly is “The Switch”? Well, let me explain…
Over the past year, I have photographed numerous beautiful weddings and loved every minute of it. However, as most of you know, we began fostering our sweet little boy at the very beginning of this year. There is absolutely nothing I love more than being at home with him and watching him learn something new every single day. We were just given the news that he will officially become part of our family next month! I CAN NOT even put into words how happy this makes me. We are thrilled!
All of this considered, I have decided to pull back on the number of weddings I accept, and focus more on lifestyle and portrait sessions. This is where I began my business, and it really is what I desire to do. Not only am I extremely passionate about family photography, but this will also allow me to spend even more time with my own family! What could be better than doing what you love, and getting to enjoy it all while watching your little one grow? Nothing.
So, head on over to my new pricing page and check out the changes that I have made. Please feel free to spread the word that our family sessions are back in full swing!! :)
Warmly,
Kimberly
Will + Jessica {austin couple photography}
Oooooh goodness… I am beyond thrilled to share these super sweet photos from Will and Jessica’s one year anniversary session. To be honest, I have not had many requests for one year anniversaries, but I do believe they have just become my new favorite thing. What a sweet idea, right? They even brought their year old wedding cake for the shoot. LOVE. Also, did I mention that Jessica is a fabulous photographer? Well, she is… check her out!
Okay, okay… on to the photos.
Style Me Pretty Feature {austin wedding photographer}
Today is a GREAT day! Not only was yesterday the most wonderful 1st Mother’s Day, but I woke up this morning to some fabulous news. Meagan and Dustin’s engagement shoot is featured on Style Me Pretty today! There are no words to tell you how excited I am about this… not only because it’s an honor, but because Meagan and Dustin are the most adorable couple alive. I am so looking forward to their wedding in June!
Nikki + Chris {austin engagement photographer}
These two are just so adorable… I can’t even begin to tell you. Their wedding is in August, and I can not wait. You can be sure that there will be loads of sweet family and friends there to celebrate this couple. They are the kind of people who just radiate love, and you just can’t help but want to be around them.
What to Wear {for the bride + groom to-be}
One of the most common questions I am asked by my bride and grooms to-be is… “What should we wear for our engagement photos?”
The answer is really very simple. Be YOU! Yes, there are a few things that I would steer away from, such as; your everyday tennis shoes (converse are the exception), super matchy-matchy, large writing and logos on your clothing, etc. However, there are some exceptions to the rules, but for the most part try to avoid those things.
This is not the same for every photographer, but I prefer everything very sweet and simple. Do you really want to look back at your photos 20 years from now and think, “Wow, that is not at all who we were.” Does anyone remember those Glamour Shots from the 90′s? You know, the place in the mall where they gave you big hair, hot pink lipstick, and sparkly clothes. I remember my Mom doing this (Sorry Mom!), and now when I see those photos of her I think, “That was not my Mom.” You want your photos to reflect who you are now as a couple, rather than the craziest/latest trends. Keep it simple and YOU. Don’t over-do it. Trust me, you won’t regret that decision.
Everyone knows of Pinterest, right? It’s one of my most favorite things. On my personal Pinterest, I have created a “What to Wear” board. Take a look around for some inspiration, and notice how simple everything is. When I look at these couples, I feel like I really have an idea of who they are.
Spring Sale
If you didn’t know, right now is THE best time for photos in Austin. It is beautiful outside! So, in honor of the gorgeous weather, I would love to offer you the chance to finally get those family photos taken… at a discounted rate!! WHAT??? Yes.
Now thru Friday, I will be offering portrait sessions at $250. Don’t stress… the photos won’t be taken this week, just booked. When you contact me, just mention this sale and then we will figure out the best time that works for you. To partake in this “Oh, so wonderful” Sale, just send me a quick e-mail and I will get back with you in a jiffy. info{at}coati photography{dot}com
*Portrait sessions are great for families, couples, and seniors. Sessions include an online proofing gallery, along with a DVD of 30-50 high-res retouched images.
Meagan + Dustin {austin engagement photographer}
There is simply one word to describe this engagement session… GORGEOUS! Meagan and Dustin came to this shoot fully prepared. WAY prepared. It was beautiful, and it was all Dustin’s idea. That is what I call a cooperative groom! Meagan’s brother brought his ’49 Ford truck, and Dustin brought vintage bicycles, coke bottles, hats, etc. If you want to win me over, this is the way to do so. Not only was the set up and location beautiful, but do these two not look like they came straight out of a J.Crew magazine? Seriously precious.
I can not wait for their wedding day!
Brad & Megan {austin engagement photographer}
Oh my goodness… how sweet are Brad & Megan? The answer… SO sweet! This was my first official photo session since our little baby boy came into our home, and let me tell you… it felt so good to be back at work. I have missed getting out of the house and interacting with clients. Brad and Megan made it so very easy to get back into the groove of things. They were complete naturals, and so much fun to work with. Check out the last couple of pictures. Just as I started to pack everything up and call it a wrap, Brad pulled Megan aside and asked her to dance. Precious!
I am so bummed that I was already booked for their wedding day. You can bet that it will be one beautiful day!
Jeremy & Lydia {austin engagement photographer}
I am so excited about these photos that I just couldn’t wait to edit and post them. Jeremy proposed to Lydia last night at the French Legation Museum here in Austin and it was beyond precious. These two could not be more perfect for each other… it’s ridiculous.
The actual proposal was kept private, but Jeremy had contacted me a couple of weeks ago to see if we could do a mini-session immediately afterwards. I got their a little early to find Jeremy so excited and so nervous. He had planned everything out so well. I hid behind the beautiful plantation style home waiting for Lydia to arrive. I saw her walking down the long path, looking at Jeremy waiting for her in the distance. It was beautiful and I felt so honored to be part of their special day.
Congrats guys!!
Michael & Ginny {austin family photography}
These two are headed to Asia… yes, Asia for a 2 week tour. So, we tried to squeeze in a quick session before they left. I will be honest and say that I have never heard Michael sing before, but if he is even half as good as his wife then you never know… they could just be the next “BIGBANG“. Look it up people; BIGBANG is only the hottest thing that has ever hit Asia!!
All joking aside, I am super excited for them and CAN NOT wait to hear about their trip.
On a side note: Their dog, Belle, is the cutest most energetic puppy I have ever met! (Besides Baxter, of course.) :)
Lesley & Carlton {austin engagement photographer}
I don’t even know where to begin. This engagement session is by far one of my favorites! There were so many great shots that I almost gave up blogging about it, because I just couldn’t narrow down my top choices. Lesley and Carlton are like a photographer’s dream couple… so ridiculously easy-going and easy to work with, gorgeous, fun, sweet. The list could really go on forever. I am so thrilled that I get to spend my birthday shooting their wedding! After all… January 7th is the best day of the year.
Spread the Holiday Cheer
It’s that time of year again… family, turkey, candy canes, stockings, and CHRISTMAS CARDS!!! Or if you’re really eager, Thanksgiving cards.
I have marked 3 special days on my calendar just for you guys, and I wanted my lovely blog stalkers to get first dibs. I only have 12 spots available and they will fill up quickly. So, if you are interested, just send me a quick email letting me know which time slot you would prefer and I will get back with you ASAP. info@coatiphotography.com
These shoots are great for couples and families.
DETAILS:
$150
30 minute mini-session
15-20 fully edited high quality images on DVD
DATES/TIMES:
Friday, October 28: 5:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:00
Wednesday, November 2: 5:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:00
Friday, November 4: 5:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:00
**ALL TIMES ARE PM**
Location has not been decided at this time, but will be somewhere in central Austin.
stu & nicole {austin couple photography}
Stu contacted me about a month ago wanting to know if I could help him plan a surprise photo shoot with his wife, Nicole, for their 5th anniversary. Ummm… YES!!
This shoot was SO much fun! Stu had also bought Nicole a brand new Public bike and wanted to use it (and his) for the pictures. These bikes are probably some of the most awesome bikes that I have seen around Austin. I was IN LOVE… please don’t tell Philip that he has been replaced by a bike. :) Seriously though, I’m sold. I’ve got to have one.
It’s Your Lucky Day
Guess who got a new camera??
Join me in celebrating…
Just because I am so ridiculously excited about this, I decided that I would give you guys a chance to get in on the excitement as well. So here is the deal… I have 2 really great opportunities.
#1 – WIN A FREE SESSION:
- Great for families, engagements, senior portraits, etc.
- 1-2 hour session on location (normally 2-4 locations with as many outfits as time allows)
- 20-30 fully retouched images in a password protected online gallery
- Online ordering for prints
- One 8×10 of your choice
How? I will announce a winner June 6th at 8pm on twitter. You must live within 20 miles of Austin, TX, or be willing to come to Austin for your session. All you have to do is follow me on twitter (@kim_ellis) and tweet this one simple sentence:
I would LOVE to win a free photo session with @kim_ellis, of Coati Photography, because… (insert a really spectacular reason!)
#2 – GET A FREE 16×24 CANVAS PRINT:
With your purchase of a session, you will receive a free canvas print (of your choice)… a value of $100. SWEET DEAL!! So, if you don’t win #1, and you were already trying to decide if you wanted to schedule a session or not… well, now is the time. If you schedule a shoot with me between today and June 30, you will get your choice of any photo from your session printed on a 16×24 canvas. YES!!! Spread the word and tell your friends… the more the merrier! :)
So get to tweeting, blog friends!!!
Chuck & Courtney {austin engagement photographer}
OOOOOOH YESSS!!! If you hadn’t heard… I had THE BEST “photo shoot” tonight. I had the opportunity to capture a SUPER exciting moment! Chuck and Courtney are engaged! :)
I have had the pleasure of taking care of Chuck’s 3 precious boys for the past six months or so, and I can not tell you how excited I am for him. These two are extremely blessed… Courtney is getting a super great guy, and Chuck is getting a really sweet girl. Not to mention, there are now SIX adorable kiddos in this family!
Tonight was so much fun. Chuck had been planning this proposal out for weeks now, and I must say that he did an incredible job. We all arrived in Gruene, TX and he gave us all very detailed instructions. He had planned out a very elaborate scavenger hunt which involved all of their friends and family. It was just perfect, and I am so honored that I was able to be a part of their special day.
Jason & Jade {austin couple photographer}
Tonight I had the pleasure of shooting some of our good friends… who by the way, are hilarious!!!
These two are some of the most talented people I know. Seriously.
You may have heard of Jason Poe… he is an absolutely incredible singer/songwriter. If you haven’t heard his music, you are missing out. His music was just featured on Private Practice 2 weeks ago. Philip gets to play drums for him here and there, and we love him. Check him out… NOW.
You have probably also heard of Jade… or seen her for that matter. Jade is the one giving you all of the important news here in Austin on KVUE. But most importantly, she is one of the sweetest human beings that I have ever known.
I’m pretty sure that we laughed through this entire shoot…
day25 – autum & leif
Today I had the privilege of shooting this super sweet engaged couple. LOVED getting to spend a little bit of quality time with them. I first met Autum in a class at our church and we share a special bond… we are both too tiny for our own good. We can’t find clothes that fit right or 5.5 size shoes to save our lives. Thankfully, Autum works for TOMS shoes… that’s right. Can you say AWESOME? I must say that I am a little jealous. Okay, a lot jealous.
So please contain yourself and don’t have a heart attack when you see how adorable they are…
