Expressions by Shannon

Administrative Assistant

2012-03-07T11:02:00.001-05:00

Looks like I get to play Administrative Assistant for the next few weeks. I'm the lucky girl that gets to make all of the follow up phone calls and schedule appointments with the people who stopped by my husband's booth at this year's Home and Garden Show. I'm not complaining, I really only worked one day of it, didn't have to set it up or even help break it down. I might even be able to sit in the sun and make some of those calls. It is, after all, going to be a beautiful, sunny, 65 degree day in early March. Yay! We were lucky enough to have our pretty cool brother-in-law come down from Michigan and sleep on the sofa for almost a week and help out with set up, break down, and talk to people at the show. Thanks George! You've been awesome!

Baby M {again}

2012-03-02T22:31:00.004-05:00

Thought I'd share a couple more of little miss M. Don't you just want to squeeze her?

Cincinnati Senior Photographer

2012-03-02T22:20:00.004-05:00

What can I say that you can't already see by looking at his photos...he's a pretty handsome young man! I know his mom is proud of him and I could tell during the shoot. After she saw his photos, she sent me the nicest email. She said they made her tear up...that means I've done my job ;). I know it's probably because she's looking at pictures of a boy turning into a man and she was thinking about how fast time has gone, but hey, I can take it as a compliment to my work too, right?

He was such a good sport, even though I could tell he didn't really want to be there {at least at first}. Most senior guys don't though ;). Thanks Jill for bringing him to me! I love photographing seniors!

Home and Garden Show

2012-02-25T08:04:00.001-05:00

The Cincinnati Home and Garden Show starts today and I expect to see some of you down there :). Kidding! Seriously, if you do come down to check it out, stop by and see us. We're out in the lobby near the ticket booths. I'm stuck working alone this morning so the hubby can sleep after pulling an all nighter in the shop, so do this girl a favor and come entertain me.

I'm a little behind on editing, I know a few of you are waiting, but our computer fiasco this week really set me back. Since I'm working the Home and Garden Show all weekend, I'll be back to work on Monday...Promise!!

Baby M {Cincinnati Newborn Photographer}

2012-02-23T20:35:00.001-05:00

Thank you Rachel for letting me try out the trendy stuff on baby M! She's beautiful! Almost makes me want another....almost! More to follow, just wanted to share one this evening.

P.S. Becky, your family pics are loading into your gallery now. Direct link coming your way in just a bit!

Editing on hold...

2012-02-21T12:54:00.001-05:00

My apologies to those of you waiting on me to edit your photos. Our desktop has been down all weekend and it's starting to look like we're going to have to replace the motherboard AGAIN! It's been a frustrating few days over here. We're hoping to get everything worked out today so I can get back to work by tomorrow. Wishing I could just edit on the laptop, but pretty sure nobody would be happy about that when it comes time to print and the colors are all funky :(.

On the upside, since the computer has been down, I've gotten my house cleaned and the grocery shopping done. Makes me wonder if I'm not more productive without it. Now I'm just sitting here wishing someone had given me a reminder about not grocery shopping while hungry {and distracted} today though. My $300+ grocery bill was a bit of a shock at the checkout. I'm pretty sure I've never spent that much for groceries in one visit. Maybe I won't have to go next week ;)

I hope you all have a wonderful, productive, and slightly less distracted day than I'm having!

Prayers for Becky

2012-02-16T22:09:00.003-05:00

Please keep Becky {and her family} in your prayers, she's got a rough few months ahead of her and could really use all the prayers she can get.

p.s. That purse-sized cuteness she has in her lap is Ginger :)

Size matters

2012-02-13T11:19:00.000-05:00

Last year I ordered a set of prints from my favorite session with my girls. Each print was 12" x 12", it seemed like a 40" wide x 26" tall layout would be big enough for the wall behind the chaise....uhhhh...wrong! By the time I spent an hour measuring everything and getting them on the wall I realized how small they really were. I wasn't sure what to do since standout mounted prints are reasonably expensive and I didn't want to start over, order bigger prints and trash the ones I had already invested in. After having breakfast with a photographer friend at her house, I noticed she had standout mounted prints too, only her's were also framed and they looked fantastic. So, Ginny, thanks for the idea, I love the pictures so much more now.
Lucky for me, my hubby is a woodworker with a pretty awesome wood shop right in the back yard and was willing to build them for me after a bit of begging. I of course had to caulk and paint them (4 coats to be exact!), but I'm pretty happy with them now AND they're proportionate to the wall.

Sorry about the before picture, I took it on my phone and it's hard to photograph metallic prints without catching a glare.

Cancer Sucks!

2012-02-09T13:32:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I had a shoot with a client who was just diagnosed with breast cancer. They haven't staged her yet, the only thing they know is that it's aggressive and they're treating it as aggressively as they possibly can. She had her first round of chemo this week and will have 17 more weekly rounds and possibly some radiation, so it's going to be a rough few months for her, her husband, and their four children. Please keep her and her family in your prayers! B, you and your family will continue to be in my prayers & please don't hesitate to call me this weekend if you're up for that family session.

After that, what happened today seems so trivial, but thought I'd share anyway. I really had big plans to get stuff done today, but instead when I started paying bills (1st on my list) and went to check our accounts online I noticed some strange transactions in one of the business accounts. After looking for another couple of minutes, I realized that someone has gotten our account number and has taken about $1000 so far. Looks like we're going to have a fun couple of days cleaning that mess up...fingers crossed that they haven't opened up credit cards in our names too.

Boudoir Round 2...

2012-02-06T11:36:00.003-05:00

It's starting to look like I may need to set up another day for boudoir sessions. It won't be possible to get this round done before Valentine's Day, just too much going on in the Hickcox house over the next month. I'm pretty sure Jeff (the hubby) will start having anxiety attacks if I don't start putting some real time into the graphics for the Home and Garden Show soon. Maybe mid March (after his show)? I'll get a firm date and start contacting those of you who have emailed or expressed interest already. I should probably get mine on the calendar as well, Jeff was asking where his were this weekend and said something about the shoemaker's kids having no shoes...lol. So far it sounds like I possibly have 7 ladies that are ready for these which is definitely enough to fill a day.

On a totally separate note, if you're a High School Senior graduating this year and haven't had your photos done yet, it's not too late. I just booked one for next weekend. Yes, it will probably be cold, but they'll still be getting done. I bet it'll be one of the fastest sessions I've ever done too!

BTW, If you're wondering about the Home and Garden Show or if you want to come and see Jeff (and maybe me if I can't wiggle out of it) during the show, here's a link with the dates and times. We'll be in the lobby near the ticket booth.

http://www.hartproductions.com/home-and-garden-show/

Jeff's site (desperately needs to be updated)...

http://www.garagestorageandmore.com/

Well, back to work for me! Hope you all have a fantastic day! I'll be finishing up a house project and once I'm done here. I'll share pictures when it's all done.

Slacker Saturday :)

2012-02-04T11:53:00.001-05:00

I should totally be editing right now, but instead I'm still sitting here in my pj's and loving it! A sleepover last night and two birthday parties today, including one for our own this evening....I think I deserve it! I'm really looking forward to a little rock climbing myself since it started raining and I couldn't go for a run this morning and I really wanted to. I still can't believe our baby girl turned 8!! 8!! That's 1/2 way to 16 already...sigh! I guess we don't get to choose how fast they grow up, just be happy to enjoy the ride with them. Their daddy is probably starting to get nervous the closer they both get to becoming teenagers. I think I heard him say something about moving into his wood shop in the backyard. Not really sure if he was joking or not either...lol
Anyway, guess I should get myself in the shower and get my day started, it is almost noon after all. Hope you all enjoy your weekend as much as I plan to.

I'm still planning on doing an adult rock climbing party later, so if you want to join us another time, Groupon has a deal...

http://www.groupon.com/deals/rockquest-climbing-center-1?c=all&p=9

Orders coming up....

2012-02-01T11:43:00.000-05:00

Books and prints will be ordered tonight...woot! woot! I can't wait to see what they look like and hand them over to you ladies!! You should have them in your hands in about a week! I've got some other editing and some graphics work to do for the hubby today, but I think I might just take a break from the computer for the afternoon and enjoy some of this beautiful weather. Lunch at my favorite place and a little shoe shopping for me..DSW did send me a coupon after all. I'm pretty sure that means they miss me ;)

Boudoir again?

2012-01-26T11:10:00.000-05:00

Since I've been asked twice if I'll be booking group rate boudoir sessions again, I figured I should answer here since I know some of you won't specifically ask. The answer is yes! We had a lot of fun and the ladies that came out were awesome, so I'm going to say it again, you ladies rocked it! I probably won't book the group rate sessions until January next year and hopefully I'll have everything ready to go a little sooner so you have more than 2 weeks warning. Also, it will probably be earlier in the month so I won't be in such a time crunch to get them edited while I'm supposed to be working on Home and Garden Show graphics for my husband. If you want to do them sooner (birthday gift, bachelorette party, wedding gift, etc.) and get a group rate, round up a group of your girlfriends and book a room or schedule time at your own house when you will be able to have privacy. I'll be happy to email you more info if you're interested.

I guess it's time for me to get back to work editing! Thank you Starbucks coffee for keeping me awake & Pandora Radio for keeping me sane...I'm lovin' my 90s rap today ;)

Editing

2012-01-24T20:35:00.000-05:00

I know you ladies are waiting patiently so I wanted to let you know...one down, six to go. Developing the Photoshop formula was a little time consuming, but now I have that done so the rest should go faster. Hopefully I'll have more knocked out tomorrow since I don't have plans to do anything else until 6:30 when I meet one of you ladies for dinner at Panera ;). Guess I should work on her's next! I'll see if I can get permission to share a few with the rest of you that visit the blog. These ladies were fabulous! Seriously!

...two to go! Ahhh, there's light at the end of the editing tunnel after all!

Makeup stuff

2012-01-20T11:15:00.002-05:00

Saw this when I was checking my email this morning, thought I'd share..
http://shine.yahoo.com/beauty/makeup-counter-salesgirl-becomes-youtube-beauty-sensation-202100215.html

Saturday's boudoir sessions

2012-01-17T13:08:00.000-05:00

Alright ladies, it's getting closer and I'm sure you already have most of your things ready. I'm packing up some stuff I have laying around here that will make things fun...necklaces, shoes, boas, hats, etc. If you haven't already, I recommend getting a set of false eyelashes and practice putting them on...it's much tougher than I expected! They photograph nice and put the emphasis on your eyes, which should be the focus of at least a few of your photos ;). I'm not sure how much help I will be with makeup and hair, but Michele will be there and she's got a good eye for that kind of stuff.
I'll be booking the room tonight and will email you with the location, unfortunately I won't have a room number until check in, so you're welcome to call or text before your session so you don't have to stop at the front desk.

Here's my generic list of stuff you might want to bring with you...
Multiple outfits (an hour is definitely enough time to change at least one time)
Stockings (thigh highs are usually the best)
Shoes (I wear a 7 and will have some with me, email if you need pics)
False eyelashes
Makeup (lipstick, mascara, powder, etc.)
jewelry (necklaces, rings, bracelets. I will bring what I have too)
hair accessories
gloves (I have black, elbow length, satin if you need them)
Necktie if you want it
One of your husband's button up shirts if you want
Any other props...guitar, hat, etc.
If I've forgotten something and you think someone else could benefit from knowing, please leave it in the comments. You don't have to leave your name.

If you have some time, check out this site... http://www.boudoirphotographysandiego.com/

one of those days....

2012-01-09T11:15:00.002-05:00

Ever just have one of those days where nothing seems to go your way? Maybe it's just because it's winter and I haven't seen enough sunshine, or maybe I'm just being more honest with myself than I usually am, who knows...I just know reality & negativity are kicking my butt today! Going back to bed so I can start today over is starting to sound like a great idea. If I didn't have so much to do I'd give it some serious consideration.

Anyway, I really didn't come here to tell you that my day got off to a less than stellar start, I wanted to tell all of you that have signed up for the boudoir sessions that I have an idea board started on Pinterest.com. If you're not already a member of the site, you should sign up, but be warned, it's a time suck! I can't say enough good about that site, every time I need to find ideas for something, that's the first place I look. So, if you'd like to see the board, I think you can just enter my name into the search box and my boards will pop up once you click People {right below the search box in the upper left corner}.

Also, I'm still putting a list together of fun things to bring with you as well as hair and makeup ideas. This isn't going to be like a family session, so don't be afraid to go a little over the top.

One last thing, if you're nervous about me sharing these photos on the internet, please don't be. I would never do that unless you specifically requested it. Also, once I'm done editing, all of the RAW files will be destroyed. Nobody needs to be nervous about anyone seeing these photos except for me and who you share them with yourself.

unexpected...

2012-01-06T22:24:00.000-05:00

I have to admit, I totally didn't expect to have as many people interested in this type of session. I'm proud of you ladies ;)! I have 7 spots open and may have to hold more evening hours or open some spots on Sunday the 22nd in the morning. Please pick your time slot and email it over so you can have the space that you want. I know it's early, but I don't want to double book any of my spots or tell people they can't have the spot that they want because I got too many requests for the same time slot.

Second thing, the album, hotel cost, and retouching time is what bumped the price up on these a little. I know everyone is used to a slightly lower price ($125ish) on the Friends and family days so if you're looking for a break, I will do loose 5x7 prints or a spiral bound book (instead of the hard covered, press printed book). Just call it package 2 when you email me for your spot. It'll be $125 for the hour session & 5x7 prints/spiral bound book.

Last thing, I'm jumping on my soapbox here...
Please, if you want to do these photos but are making excuses like 'I need to lose weight', 'I'm too shy', 'I have cellulite', whatever! Ladies, I'm pretty confident when I say nothing is going to make us younger. Nobody is going to look back on doing these photos and say 'I so wish I DIDN'T take these photos'. So ladies, please stop worrying about your cellulite, that 5lbs that you 'need' to loose, the pimple on your chin, etc. Nobody is perfect...that's what Photoshop is for ;). Not to mention, we as women need to stop beating ourselves up over things we can't, and frankly don't need to change. Embrace it! Our husbands do and they even love us for it!
Okay, off my soapbox now! Good night ladies and happy shopping!

Boudoir Sessions

2012-01-06T13:48:00.007-05:00

When:
Saturday, January 21st
Sunday, January 22nd

Where:

East Cincinnati Hotel

(to be determined)

Times available:

Saturday

2 p.m. Booked

3 p.m. Booked

4 p.m. Booked

5 p.m. Booked
6 p.m. Booked
7 p.m. Booked
8 p.m. Booked
Sunday
9 a.m.
10 a.m.
11 a.m.

Cost: $175 each person for 5-10 artistically, retouched photos in a drawer-sized, professional quality, hard covered photo book or $125 for 5-10 loose prints in a photo box.

You're welcome to bring a friend or two. If you're bringing friend(s), please let me know ahead of time if they're participating and we'll block extra time for you. I'll have help on hand with costume, hair, makeup, you'll have to do your own, but we'll be there to help make you look your best. Tonight I'll put together a list of fun things to bring with you to help make your session the best that it can possibly be and email it to those that are planning on signing up.

Hello neglected blog!

2012-01-05T14:31:00.001-05:00

Today a friend reminded me that I have a blog which reminded me that maybe I need stop in to say hello once in a while...even in the winter. Oh, how easily I forget about my poor neglected blog once shooting season has come to an end. I guess it's time to get things organized for 2012's shooting season, get that website updated, and start picking out dates for this year's shooting marathon days (i.e. Friends and Family Days).

So my friends, I'm going to start the first Friends and Family Day out with a Valentine's Day shoot (not on Valentine's day though). I'm thinking about renting a hotel room and doing some boudoir photos for the husbands. Are you brave enough? If you are, shoot me an email and I'll get you some details.

For the more faint of heart, we can always put a cute set together for the kids on a separate date ;).

Happy Friday!

2011-11-11T10:16:00.001-05:00

Only 44 Days until Christmas! Guess what I'm doing today....Christmas shopping! My list is reasonable this year and I'm hoping I can stick to it without going over budget. My fingers are crossed!

Anyway, I really came here to share a couple of pictures of this adorable family that I photographed last week. Aren't they cute?

Christmas cards and wall galleries

2011-11-10T13:31:00.001-05:00

If you've purchased your digital files from me and are planning on using them to make Christmas cards this year, MPix.com is the company that I recommend using. They meet my quality standards on color, products, customer service, etc. To be perfectly honest, they are a very close second to the company that I currently print through. You can use anyone, this is just who I recommend. Here's a link to their card designs, I may take the easy way out this year and use one of their designs myself ;).
http://www.mpix.com/Files/Card%20Designs.pdf

Also if you haven't printed photos for your walls yet and haven't seen this link on my Facebook fan page, I bought these templates a while back and meant to share them sooner. The price listed is retail for me printing for you. If you own the digital files, your price will be determined by whoever you print through. Again, I recommend printing through MPix.com since my monitor is calibrated to meet their printing specifications and I trust them.
Here's the link...
http://shannonhickcox.zenfolio.com/wallgalleries

Happy Printing!

Open Orders

2011-11-05T20:20:00.002-04:00

My season is wrapping up and I'm planning on taking the month of December off to celebrate our 11 year wedding anniversary, take a trip, celebrate Christmas, and plan my Husband's 35th birthday party. So if you want to order prints, have Christmas cards designed, etc. please contact me as soon as possible. Order cut off will be December 1st. I will not be placing orders between December 2nd and January 2nd. Thank you for understanding!

Family Photographer Cincinnati

2011-10-31T12:26:00.000-04:00

It's Monday and as usual, I'm sitting at my computer editing ;). Two more sessions after this then I'm on to school portrait orders...it's starting to look like it's going to be a busy week, but busy season is winding down. I'll should have my year wrapped up by December 1st, just in time to celebrate our 11th wedding anniversary on the 2nd. This might be a first for me! Anyway, just wanted to share at least one photo of this little beauty. She was so much fun! I'll share more of the family photos in a bit. Thanks for making my job easy guys!

Before and After

2011-10-31T11:33:00.001-04:00

I know most of you know that more goes into photography than just taking a picture, but I thought it would be fun to show you what a typical photo looks like straight out of the camera next to an edited photo. I wouldn't show a before photo of one of my clients {unless they were okay with it}, but this is me and I'm okay with sharing mine.

Michigan Family

2011-10-24T12:34:00.004-04:00

So we're back from our trip and I'm missing everyone today and I know I say it all the time, but I really do wish we lived closer to each other or at least had more time to visit everyone. Maybe not in Michigan, but a closer drive so we could see each other more often and not miss so many important things in each other's lives.

I can't believe our nephew is two already and how fast the past two years have gone. I realize our girls are getting older and bigger too. Most days I wish I could slow it down because I know they'll be grown up and won't need us as much and it makes me a little sad. We are blessed to have them in our lives, even if they are growing up so fast.

Can't forget to thank my sister-in-law, Heather for introducing me to her personal trainer and letting me know what a wimp I am. Today has been rough...everything is sore! I really thought I had been working pretty hard at the gym until I got my butt kicked by her trainer while she breezed right through the same workout. It's starting to look like I'm going to need a heating pad for my legs today...geez!

While I was flipping through O's birthday party pictures I noticed a few things...first that I've got a pretty great family and am a pretty lucky girl. Second, I should really rethink who I hand my camera over to next time...ahem...Heather ;). Yes, it is impressive that I can fit an entire cupcake into my mouth, but no, I didn't really want to capture that though the lens of a camera. Same goes for pictures of me bent over...thank you very much for that. Makes looking through snapshots lots of fun...lol.

Anyway, it is good to be back in my favorite place...home! I picked the dogs up from the kennel this morning and they smell horrible {as usual} so I'm off to give them baths. Hope you all enjoy the rest of your day!

P.S. In case I didn't already say so...Happy Birthday Buddy!

Aristocuts Salon

2011-10-20T18:21:00.001-04:00

Thought I'd share my friend Jackie's site. She's the one that cuts my hair and runs Aristocuts Salon in Loveland....love her!!
http://www.aristocutssalon.com/

and her facebook fan page...
Aristocuts Salon...become a fan!

Child Photographer Cincinnati

2011-10-20T18:14:00.003-04:00

Full of energy and cuteness! What more could a photographer ask for?

Creative Tots

2011-10-13T13:08:00.001-04:00

If your child was photographed on Monday, your images are loading now. We had so much fun with your kids! So much cuteness! I can't wait to share the images with you. Hopefully you'll be able to see them this afternoon....Tuesday and Wednesday classes are coming up soon. Off to an afternoon session at the park!

Pandora Radio

2011-10-13T10:52:00.004-04:00

Thank you Pandora Radio for saving my sanity as I sit in front of this computer for the next three weeks. Seriously! I think love the guy/girl {a little} that created it :). Just thought I'd express my undying gratitude to the creator. lol

2 more days....

2011-10-10T18:54:00.002-04:00

As much as I'm enjoying school photos this year, I'm really looking forward to getting back to my normal routine. Up at 7, kids ready for school, off to the gym, then run errands or back home for chores or editing. Not exactly the life of leisure, but I'm feeling pretty grateful for my {regular} life and family these days. Working full-time hours and trying to keep it together around the house the past two weeks and I'm feeling defeated and exhausted! I give credit to all the Mommas out there that hold it all down {all of the time}. You ladies are AMAZING! And Michele, just want to say THANK YOU again! I really couldn't do this without you, you're pretty awesome!

Just want to share a couple from this year's school pictures...

me

2011-10-07T19:38:00.003-04:00

So my friend Michele came over this evening and wanted to take pictures of me and my new favorite boots :). I feel like I need to apologize to everyone I've ever photographed...I'm sorry! I really don't like that side of the camera, it feels weird, awkward, and I have to admit unless we were joking around about stuff...downright uncomfortable!

School Week

2011-10-07T15:50:00.001-04:00

Not that I didn't expect it, but it has been a crazy week and I'm glad the weekend is here. Michele and I survived the first set of school pictures! Thank you again Angela for helping out! We both really appreciate it...you probably don't even understand how much. I'm still pretty tired, but managed to make it to the gym this morning...I'm even thinking about going in on tomorrow so I guess it can't be that bad.
So Jeff {hubby} has a pretty big project coming up and wants to create a time-lapse video while it's being installed. Apparently creating a time-lapse video is much more complicated than we expected. We thought we'd just be able to run out and buy a time-lapse remote {intervalometer...who knew there was even such a word?} that hooks on to the point-and-shoot camera that I picked out {which is pretty awesome by the way....Canon's G12}. No such luck! I spent most of this morning running from store to store, only to strike out every time. I'm feeling pretty grateful to Amazon's overnight service right now. Now my fingers are crossed that the remote actually arrives on time. He has a back up plan {just in case}, but in the future, he really needs to plan better and give me more time to shop if he wants me to do it right. There's one thing I can do well and that's shop! ;)
Anyway, enough rambling! Hope you have a fantastic weekend and get to enjoy some of this beautiful weather we're getting!

School Pictures

2011-10-05T07:58:00.000-04:00

Off to my first {of five} days of school pictures...say a little prayer for me...lol. Michele, I couldn't do it without you, thank you for being willing to come back a second year and help out!

Break time...

2011-09-28T15:35:00.000-04:00

So I was taking a break and checking emails, eating some cookies, and online shopping for boots. I know I shouldn't since I just thinned the shoe collection down to 50 pairs, but I NEED some cute riding boots. Pretty sure the Hubby would disagree with the need part, but after he bought me a drill for my birthday this year, I kinda feel like I deserve them. Don't get me wrong, it was a nice thought and its definitely a nice drill, but it's still a drill!!
Anyway, I'm rambling a little because I'm totally sleep deprived. I really just wanted to share this link that a friend sent me this morning. Funny 13-second video clip, reminds me of our big dog, Scratch.

funny dog

Senior Photographer Cincinnati

2011-09-28T14:49:00.000-04:00

What a beautiful girl! I had such a hard time picking my favorites from this session, she was so easy to work with and has such a beautiful smile, face, and personality {not that I need to point that out}. Thanks for coming out! I had so much fun!

Child Photographer Cincinnati

2011-09-28T14:39:00.000-04:00

Another from Friends and Family Day...this little guy was hysterical! Thanks again for coming out...the rest will be ready tonight.

Family Photographer Cincinnati

2011-09-27T12:37:00.000-04:00

One from Friends and Family Day...aren't they adorable? More coming soon, four edited, three to go!

This week...

2011-09-24T08:31:00.000-04:00

It's been a busy and productive week around here, much more than I expected and not without some setbacks. Hubby had two of his four wisdom teeth removed, so Monday and Tuesday he was down, but went to work on Wednesday even though I thought he was crazy. Oldest daughter came home with head lice again...grrr..so frustrating! So. much. laundry. We'll be treating every 2-3 days for the next two weeks and she's now sporting a new haircut that's she's not too happy about. I'm pretty sure she's sticking her tongue out at me under that lid...lol. Can't forget about the computer troubles that had to add to the chaos...Thank you Mike for saving us once again! I'm pretty sure I still have to uninstall Photoshop and re-install it since it's still giving me grief. I want to do bad, no, horrible things to this computer sometimes...I know it's irrational, but hey, a girl can fantasize, right?
Any extra time I had this week was spent prepping for school photos and editing last weekend's marathon of shooting that I like to call Friends and Family Day. Three sessions edited, four to go. So, if you came out on Saturday, I should have the rest wrapped up this week. I'm sorry, but I can't edit this weekend, so if you're one of the four waiting...I really am sorry! I promised my family that I would work as little as possible this weekend so we could spend some time together and get our Halloween decorations out {our girls love decorating for holidays}. Now I've just got to spend the next hour or two wrapping up the school handouts for the parents. I hope you all enjoy your weekend, I'm planning on doing the same!

School Portraits

2011-09-20T15:50:00.000-04:00

It's been a long but productive day today sitting in front of this computer. Prep work for this year's school portraits is almost done! Posters have been designed and ordered, handouts have been designed but not printed {ran into some printer issues}, letter written, and proofing website is up and running. Now I just need someone to come take care of the house and yard work that needs to be done...any takers?

If you want to check out the school proofing site, click here...
Expressions by Shannon {School Portraits}

Cincinnati child photographer

2011-09-18T13:45:00.000-04:00

Flipping through my first session from yesterday and came across this. How stinkin' cute?!?

today...

2011-09-17T07:33:00.000-04:00

Getting ready to go shoot three of my seven sessions this morning. The good thing is, I should be done by noon so I can come home and take a nap before shooting the last four. The three cans of Diet Mountain Dew I drank before bed...not such a great idea! Very little sleep last night, a little anxious, excited, and waaayyy too much caffeine to get a good night's sleep. Looks like I'll be hitting Starbucks this morning so I can make it through the morning sessions. I'm guessing I'll probably fall asleep much easier tonight.

Cincinnati Senior Photographer

2011-09-16T14:34:00.001-04:00

I never post this much, but I had to share this one. Do they get any more adorable than this?

Less eventful week...

2011-09-16T10:54:00.000-04:00

Sitting here with Scratch listening to Pandora Radio, Photoshop & Bridge open and running, posting to the blog, Facebook open {of course} and the computer isn't shutting down on me! Such a nice change from last week. Thank you again Mike! You Rock!
Jeff {the hubby} is scheduled to have those pesky wisdom teeth removed Monday. Yes, I said teeth! They're taking all four out so it looks like he'll be down again for at least a partial week next week. I'll probably be stuck right here editing anyway, so I guess I can be a good wife and help him recover ;).

Speaking of editing all week next week, I'm really looking forward to shooting tomorrow...all seven sessions. I don't know that I'll be singing the same song by the time I wrap it up around 8, but right now I'm excited so I'll just sit here and enjoy that!

Well, time to stop procrastinating and get back to editing.

P.S. Scratch says hello and he wants you to just admit that you think he's handsome :)

Cincinnati Newborn Photographer

2011-09-14T20:19:00.000-04:00

this was the sleepiest newborn I have ever worked with, she was AWESOME! We stripped her down, dressed her up, moved her around, she would wake up for just a second, no crying, then fall back to sleep. A photographer's dream!! Big brother was pretty awesome too, in typical almost 2-year-old boy form, he wanted nothing to do with me or my camera though :). Cute & sweet anyway! Mom and dad are going to have their hands full when these two grow up!

Family Photographer Cincinnati

2011-09-13T13:51:00.000-04:00

Two words... baby fever! Geez! They're cute! Makes me want more {just for a second though}. Hugs! Miss you guys already!

Friends and Family Day {Location Change}

2011-09-12T14:12:00.000-04:00

If you're coming on Saturday for a session, I've changed the location. This morning I went to check out Symmes Park, I wasn't impressed. It's very generic and honestly I could probably find a better field behind a parking lot. Not nice, but true. Anyway, I'm going with Ault Park again. I know I've done it before, and even some of the families that signed up I've even photographed there. The main reason Ault Park is my absolute favorite place to shoot is because it is beautiful! There is also a ton of variety in the shots we can come up with, nature and stonework, not to mention the light! Yup, I feel like I have to justify using a spot I've used in the past...lol, but it is after all one of Cincinnati's best parks!

My beautiful niece {Cincinnati Senior Photographer}

2011-09-10T19:08:00.000-04:00

I can't wait until I have the time to edit the rest of these...hopefully this week! I couldn't be more proud of this girl. She's so smart, sweet, level-headed, and pretty! I wish I got to spend more time with all of you, I feel like I've missed so much of you girls growing up, but I'm so happy to have been able to hang out with you for a while this weekend and get your senior pictures done. I hope you're going to love them as much as I already do! Hugs!!!

Back to School {Cincinnati Child Photographer}

2011-09-10T11:15:00.001-04:00

I love red heads! Test shooting for this year's school portraits...more to come

Family Photographer Cincinnati

2011-09-09T15:28:00.000-04:00

I love my job!

One heck of a week...

2011-09-09T15:19:00.000-04:00

Our trip to Michigan was fantastic, unfortunately coming home wasn't as welcoming as I would have liked. Our computer's motherboard was fried, so we had to get it fixed as quickly as possible so I can get some of the sessions from last weekend edited. Luckily we have one VERY awesome friend that was willing to come to our rescue on short notice. Thank you Mike!!! We owe you!
Wednesday, we had some lovely, unexpected, and uninvited visitors....head lice! One of our girls brought it home from who knows where. I have to admit, I may be one of the worst people to have that happen to. I was ready to burn everything in our house until my husband calmed me down. So, we did what any modern family would do, we got on YouTube and educated ourselves and got it under control. It took about six hours of treating heads, stripping beds, spraying the car, spraying the furniture, a trip to the laundromat with a dozen loads of blankets, pillows, stuffed animals...whew! I'm glad it's done, but that was six hours of work that I really couldn't spare especially after the computer went down. Next time someone brings head lice into this house, they're grounded for life! Just kidding! {kind of}.
Of course, my husband couldn't leave the week without a catastrophe of his own. He's laying on the sofa with an inflamed wisdom tooth. The entire side of his face is swollen and he's on some crazy pain medication. His mom told him to have those removed when he was a teenager...guess who will take their mom's advice next time? He'll be at the dentist Monday, my fingers are crossed that it's a quick and simple fix for him.
Hopefully this weekend will will make up for the week that we've had. Enough of my complaining! There was some good that came out of all that...

I have a faster computer...woo hoo!
Every blanket, pillow, piece of clothing in this house is clean
I learned that the laundromat is a pretty cool place when you have tons of laundry to do and want to get it done quickly
I'm going to get to photograph a beautiful little red head this weekend.
and my family is still pretty awesome...even if one of them did bring home head lice and the other doesn't take his mother's advice ;)

Friends and Family Day September 2011

2011-08-31T16:54:00.000-04:00

I've officially booked every spot for September's Friends and Family day, thank you to all seven families that signed up! I'm really looking forward to one crazy, long, fun day of shooting! Hopefully you've all got your clothes picked out, haircuts taken care of or scheduled already ;). I'll be sending confirmation emails next week with meeting spots and times.

Poor neglected blog

2011-08-19T13:26:00.000-04:00

I started updating my website last month, but my poor blog still hasn't been updated. My apologies to those who check here for new stuff. It's been a pretty busy summer and keeping up with postings on facebook, blog, and website is a job in itself! Anyway, new stuff coming soon, including a new design.

Updated times for Friends and Family Day

2010-04-23T22:03:00.000-04:00

Friends and Family Day

2010-04-23T14:58:00.001-04:00

6 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m. have been booked

Friends and Family Day

2010-04-22T17:10:00.001-04:00

The first Friends and Family Day will be at Ault Park. If you know someone that may be interested, please pass on the info.

First Friends and Family Day Session Date

2010-04-13T19:14:00.000-04:00

I've settled on a date and possible location for my first Friends and Family Day! It's going to be Saturday, May 22nd. Hopefully I'll have pictures to share of the location soon! If you're interested in getting a spot, email me at shannonhickcox@yahoo.com

Baby M... Cincinnati Baby Photographer

2010-03-08T16:29:00.000-05:00

This beautiful little girl is only 10 weeks old! I cannot believe all of the expressions she already has...what a cutie!

Easter Special

2010-03-08T16:23:00.000-05:00

Discount Programs

2010-03-05T08:40:00.000-05:00

I've been gearing up for spring all winter and have been putting a lot of thought into how to make Custom Portrait Photography more affordable for everyone...without working for free :). So, after a lot of thought and planning I've added two new discount programs to the pricing on my website.

Friends and Family Days
I've scouted locations around Cincinnati and found my favorite spots to shoot and wnat to share them with you! Starting in May I'll be releasing different dates and locations that I've chosen for Friends and Family Days. It'll happen about every 6-8 weeks until November. About four weeks before the date, I'll post a note on this blog and on my Facebook fan page with details about the location and times available. Each session will last approximately 30 minutes (about 1/2 the time of a typical session). The sitting fee will be 1/2 price ($25 for kids, families, and pets and $50 for seniors), prints and digital files will be 1/2 price as well. I'm really looking forward to this, I've been excited about releasing this all winter!

Share a Session
This one you can take advantage of anytime. Bring a friend to your session and split the cost of the sitting fee and take 1/2 off of your prints. This offer only applies to up to 6 kids and/or pets...no families or seniors...sorry!

If you have any questions or want to make sure you get an email before the event, please email me at shannonhickcox@yahoo.com or call 859.240.2714.

Thanks! I look forward to spending time with you and your family this year!
Shannon Hickcox
Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky Portrait Photographer
www.expressionsbyshannon.com

Twin Boys- Cincinnati Newborn Photographer

2010-03-05T07:46:00.000-05:00

Congrats on TWO beautiful boys Allison and Orlando! Can't wait to see these guys again when it finally gets warm again!

Baby Kendra- Cincinnati Baby Photgrapher

2010-03-05T07:43:00.000-05:00

Love seeing those little chubby cheeks Miss Kendra! Can't wait to see you again!

Baby Oliver- Cincinnati Baby Photographer

2010-03-05T07:40:00.001-05:00

He's growing so fast! I just can't believe it! He's turning into quite the handsome little guy :) Can't wait to do his 6 month pictures.

Puppy Cuteness

2010-03-05T07:38:00.001-05:00

The cutest little puppy! OMGoodness! He was so adorable :) I had fun photographing him in the snow and a few more formal ones.

Easter Special

2010-03-05T07:33:00.000-05:00

1/2 price sitting fee through the month of March to celebrate Easter. Bring your cuties and have their Easter pictures taken on this backdrop with a live bunny. If you book on Saturday, March 20th you'll get 1/2 priced prints too! Send me a message at shannonhickcox@yahoo.com or call 859.240.2714 to book your spot!

Birthday Girl

2010-02-03T09:17:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Miss N!

Newborn Twins!!

2010-02-03T09:13:00.001-05:00

These two are sooooo cute! They didn't want to sleep at all, so we worked fast with the 5 minutes they did give us! Congrats Lisa and Kevin! You have two very beautiful little ladies :)

Interesting post

2010-01-28T22:14:00.001-05:00

I found this and thought it was interesting....
www.professionalchildphotographer.com/information/

Sometimes its hard, even for us photographers to look at the 'big picture'. We need to sit back and make ourselves take a realistic look at the time we spend on photography, even if we love it :)

Discount Programs

2010-01-28T10:54:00.000-05:00

I'm putting together details for my new discount program. I just need to finalize some of the details....I'll be offering 1/2 price everything for 'share a session' and friends and family days. More details coming soon!

Sport

2010-01-25T08:07:00.001-05:00

This week I got a call from a friend, her friend's very first dog who is 10.5 years old, was diagnosed with lukemia. Apparently it's reasonably common in Golden Retrievers. No less sad when you're preparing yourself for the loss of one of your best friends. I'm just glad we were able to capture some moments and personality for him. I hope the next few months he will be as happy as he's been over the past 10.5 years!

*see the special below

Event Special

2010-01-25T07:50:00.000-05:00

Get a free memory book like this one with your *booked Event before March 31, 2010. It's 5x5" and you can have up to 50 custom pages. They can include designed pages or just your pictures, your choice. $75 value.

*Must receive the deposit before March 31, 2010

Q. What would qualify as an event?

A. A typical event would be a milestone birthday party (sweet 16, 30, 40, 50, etc.), bridal shower, baby shower, baptism, wedding reception (no ceremony), bachelor/bachelorette party, sporting event, family reunion, anniversary party, etc.

Q. How much will it cost?

A. $100 per hour of coverage, minimum of two hours...most parties last 2-4 hours

Q. What is included with an event booking?

A. Candid photographs during your party or occasion and some posed group photographs. You'll get the fully edited, full-resolution files to do whatever you'd like with them. You can print for yourself, friends, family, create books, make cards, use them for your blog, facebook page, etc.

*****Now through March 31, 2010 you'll recieve a free 5x5" memory book with up to 50 pages with your paid booking which retails for $75******

Archival Sale

2009-11-14T11:48:00.001-05:00

I'm archiving files from 2009 and wanted to offer a special before I totally empty my harddrive on to discs. 1/2 price, full resolution, fully edited digital files. I don't usually discount digital files so this is going to be a one time offer and it is going to end on the 24th of November....sorry can't combine this with any other offers. Thanks!

Updates

2009-11-10T12:58:00.000-05:00

Well, my poor blog is being neglected once again. It's been a busy summer and fall and I'm trying to catch up. Thank you everyone! This year has been much better than I could have ever expected. I hope that it will continue into 2010 and that I'll be prepared for it!

I'm proud to say that we have a new niece and a new nephew born 5 days and 500 miles apart! So, needless to say, we've added a bit of traveling onto our schedules :) No complaints though, both babies are beautiful and healthy...Thank the Lord! I have new photos to post and will get to that very soon!

Looking forward to making some changes for 2010, some have already started....including some price changes. So please take a look and make note of the new discount program in lieu of package pricing.

I've put a lot of thought into creating packages only to come to the realization that I have no idea what people want for their homes or families. Each family, home and session is unique, so it doesn't do anyone much good for me to guess what people would like for them. I know that there are other studios that offer packages....I think that is great! For some people, it really does simplify things, but if you already have something in mind for your home, what is the likelyhood that my package will match your needs? My guess is, slim to none. I know in the past we have done the package deal with studios for ourselves only to come up short on prints that we wanted to give to family members or to have way too many and toss them in the trash a couple years later after we paid for them.

Well, I'm looking forward to spending the winter doing some catching up, archiving, painting and getting a firmer grasp on my schedule. In case I don't make it back to my blog before the holiday....Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Senior Special

2009-08-30T16:59:00.000-04:00

For all those seniors who have waited until the school year has already started...

Book your session before October 1st and take 50% off of your $100 sitting fee. Call me at (859) 240-2714 or go to my website at www.ExpressionsbyShannon.com

Expressions by Shannon on Facebook!

2009-08-24T17:36:00.000-04:00

I've got some updating to do, but as usual, I'm falling behind :) I've been busy getting a Facebook fan page together. Yea! I've gotten a good start and will continue to work on it during the winter. Here is the link...

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Expressions-By-Shannon/115339234430

Hope to see you on there. I'll be posting coupons for fall sessions and custom Christmas cards so send your friends and familiy and check back in the next couple of weeks!

Child Photographer Cincinnati

2009-08-05T10:51:00.000-04:00

This little girl is sooo stinkin' cute! I've been wanting to photograph her since winter, well, since we first met her :) I've got my fingers crossed that I'll be able to do it again very soon. What do you think mom??

Engagement Photography Cincinnati

2009-08-05T10:44:00.000-04:00

This is my husband's college buddy, Dennis and his adorable wife Hayley! My husband was the best man in their wedding this past weekend and I photographed the event. They had quite the event and I can't wait to process the pictures! Congrats Den and Hayley!

Family Photography Cincinnati

2009-08-05T10:33:00.000-04:00

This is one good lookin' family! First of all, these two do NOT look old enough to have a 12 and 15 year old! I don't know what they've been doing to keep themselves in such great shape, but I certainly want their secret!! I'd post the whole session if I could!

Event Photographer Cincinnati

2009-08-05T10:26:00.000-04:00

Kristen you were a beautiful bride and I feel so blessed to have been able to photograph your day for you, it really was a lot of fun! Congratulations Kristen and Andy!

Garage Storage and More Cincinnati

2009-08-05T10:18:00.000-04:00

Well, I've come to realize that I'm not a 'thing' photographer. Although I got some decent images of my husband's newly wrapped van, I really didn't get the same feeling that I get when I photograph people.

Family Photography Cincinnati

2009-08-05T10:03:00.000-04:00

Michele and Family, thank you for these! I know it was stressful getting everything put together and getting there, but there are some beautiful images in there and that made it all worth it :)

Senior Photographer Cincinnati

2009-08-05T09:49:00.000-04:00

This girl should give some serious consideration to modeling. I don't think she had an unflattering angle. She was so easy to work with and had picked out such cool outfits! Thank you for such a fun session!

Family Photography Cincinnati

2009-08-05T09:38:00.000-04:00

This family was so adorable and this little guy had the biggest, cutest smile! I don't know if they get much cuter than that! It was a pleasure to work with you all! Thank you again!

Our big Girl turned 8...

2009-08-05T09:28:00.000-04:00

So we put together a book from her 8th birthday party at the salon. Thank you Jackie for doing all that hair and Kelly for painting all those little toes and fingers! The girls had such a good time even if their hair only made it 15 minutes after we got home because they HAD to swim. One more thank you....Michele for the book template :) LOVE the new book!

Falling Behind

2009-07-21T14:08:00.000-04:00

I knew this would happen...No surprise I guess....I've fallen behind on the blog and need to catch up in a bad way. We're heading to DC today until the end of the week so I'm hoping after I've finished editing the most recent sessions, I'll get 30 minutes to update the blog. I've got quite a list too...3 families, a little one, a senior, a wedding and some dogs! Summer has been a little busy, which is a great thing, I just didn't expect it! I'm so glad to be getting referrals so soon and I'm really enjoying the work, but am also looking forward to editing my own family's photos this winter when my sessions slow down. Guess I will be hiring someone to photograph and edit our family pictures this year :) I want to thank everyone for the support this year, I really appreciate it!

Pet Photographer Cincinnati

2009-06-17T23:03:00.001-04:00

Agility dogs are so much fun! Everytime I photograph dogs at Dream Weavers Agility, I am just amazed at what these dogs enjoy doing. They love to do their 'job', you can see it in their doggie smile :)

Pet Photographer Cincinnati

2009-06-17T23:00:00.000-04:00

This is definately a rare event! I honestly wasn't sure what to think when I first saw him, but boy does he have personality! He is so sweet and he just wants to be with people, snuggled up in his little baby blanket. I don't think he has a name yet, but I'd love to hear it when they do. Hope to get to photograph this guy again soon :)

Baby Photographer Cincinnati

2009-06-17T22:56:00.001-04:00

Don't you just want to squeeze his cheeks?!?? I was lucky enough to do this guy's newborn pics as well. I swear he doesn't get sleepy or crabby! The one with the cow, the look on his face and that hair :) Makes me smile everytime I look at it! Thank you Baby E for being so cute and such a good little guy!

Wedding Photography Cincinnati

2009-06-17T22:40:00.000-04:00

I really haven't set out to do weddings, but I have taken on a few for friends, or friends of friends. This couple actually got married someplace else, but I got to photograph the fun stuff...the party. I do LOVE weddings, everyone is dressed up pretty and they're happy to be there celebrating with their closest friends and family :) I just get to sit back and enjoy the celebration as it unfolds in front of my lens. Thank you for letting me photograph this, it was a pleasure!

Event Photographer Cincinnati

2009-06-17T22:35:00.001-04:00

I love photographing events, everyone laughing and having a good time. Even the dog is happy...mmmm...crumbs! I'm pretty sure this guy went to bed with a full belly after all the spills throughout the party. Congrats Austin! Class of 2009 :)

Child Photographer Cincinnati

2009-06-17T22:18:00.000-04:00

I knew this would happen, I'd fall behind on my bog and forget which order these go in. I'm determined to get them all in here though. This little cutie is not the biggest fan of the camera, but she let me get in some pretty cute shots anyway. Her dad is a lucky guy to have these two beautiful ladies in his life :)

New Website

2009-06-08T09:32:00.000-04:00

I finally finished (mostly) the new website...ahhh...I can move on for a little while. Well, after I work out the little kinks :) I didn't add up the amount of hours that I put into it and honestly don't know if I should. A few late evenings and a couple of nice summer days spent in here on the computer is well worth what I got in return. I'm just glad it's done and I love it so much more than what I had before!

I'm a little behind on my picture postings, hopefully I'll catch up with those after I finish processing the reception I did with my photographer friend Jacquie on Friday night.

Child Photography

2009-05-21T17:09:00.000-04:00

These kids were so awesome! All three of them are under 6! I cannot believe how well they cooperated, especially for their ages. I'm so happy with the images we got from this session...makes me smile :)

Cub Scout Goofiness :P

2009-05-20T08:28:00.001-04:00

While I was setting up for the formal Cub Scout pictures the other night, I had some company that helped me do some test shots and kept me entertained between shots...thanks little miss M :)

Baby Pictures

2009-05-20T08:17:00.000-04:00

I don't know how I got so lucky! This little girl is BEAUTIFUL...she was such a joy to work with. Her big sister even helped with the reflector :)

Newborn Photography

2009-05-19T08:29:00.001-04:00

OMGoodness! This little guy is so handsome! Check out those eyes and lips! He was so sweet and happy :) Lucky me got to photograph him

Dog Photography

2009-05-19T08:24:00.001-04:00

Our friend and neighbor, Kim is also a small business owner. She runs Dream Weavers Agility and if you've never seen a dog run an agility course, you have to make a point of doing it at least once. Not only are these the most loveable, most well -behaved dogs, but they love what they do and you can see it in their eyes:)

AHG Slideshow

2009-05-17T23:53:00.001-04:00

Had to try a different song :)

2009-05-17T14:48:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I had the pleasure of photographing a Piano Recital. This wasn't something that was planned, but sometimes those are the best shoots! My friend's piano teacher had something reserved at another location, but it got cancelled on short notice and luckily our church's fellowship hall was available. I was asked to come and unlock the church and sit while the show went on, so I figured I'd occupy myself by taking pictures of the kids while they played. It was so adorable! I'm so ready to sign my girls up for piano lessons now!!

First Post

2009-05-17T14:23:00.000-04:00

Well, this has been on my list for months now. We will see how well I keep up with it as time goes on and hope I don't lose steam :).....

Anyway, as you can tell by my 'about me' description, I'm a photographer. I'm still in the Portfolio Building phase of my business, so my prices are low and will probably stay that way for the next year or so. This in no way affects the quality of my work, it's just a basis for me to get a feel for whether I'm built to run a small business as well as run a household with two busy little girls. My husband Jeff has been running a Garage Makeover business, http://www.garagestorageandmore.com/ for the past 8 years or so, and lets just say it's been a lot more time and work than we had anticipated. Learning about Digital Photography has been so much fun for me that I've almost been afraid of ruining the fun of it by turning it into a business and making it 'work'. In fact, I have been hesitating for quite a while because of that fear, but I also don't want to look back one day down the road and wonder 'what if?'. I feel like now the time is right and I'm so excited about it!