The Blog: by suzyo

Gathering of Friends Cookbook - Volume 4 - Photography by Suzy O

2011-12-12T22:48:00.000-07:00

The Italian Garden at Thanksgiving Point Gardens. Taken September 2011 by Suzy Oliveira.

Awwwwwwwwhhhhhhh. Doesn't the above picture make you want to just sit back, relax, and join the dinner?

I'm delighted to announce that I was the photographer of The Gathering of Friends Volume 4: Celebrating Mother Nature.

For approximately 10 weeks I had the joy of working in the amazing Thanksgiving Point Garden with Michelle Huxtable, Abby Green, Pam Esmay, Jean Olsen, Ken Huxtable and Brayden Iwasaki.

This is the fourth volume of The Gathering of Friends, and I believe it is the best cookbook yet! Look at what I got to photograph! (And this is just a one-time sneak peek of the Italian Garden!) There are many, many more images to come.

To get a copy of this beautiful cookbook, visit the Thanksgiving Point Emporium after December 15, 2011. They have the book exclusively through December. In January 2012, I'll post an update as to locations around the country where the book will be available.

Those Lemon Torte bars above were delicious! (One of the perks of shooting the food is that sometimes I got to eat it afterward!)

The Gardens of Thanksgiving Point are one of Utah's "gems." I love visiting the gardens with my family...it was especially enjoyable to work in the gardens throughout the season of photographing the cookbook.

Thank you for stopping by! Stay tuned for more sneak peeks of some of my other favorite chapters.

Enjoy!

XOXOX

Suzy O

Deborah & Dennis

2011-10-03T03:36:00.000-06:00

This beautiful couple became a family last November. I've known Deborah, the mom, for the past eight years. I was delighted when I heard about her wedding (but sad I couldn't photograph it--I was 39 weeks pregnant with Ry-J when she got married!). BUT, I was even more delighted when she called me for their first family portraits together.

Deborah, congratulations to you and your darling family. I'm sooooo happy for you!

I have a few family sessions left before the Christmas holiday. Please call 801-358-0831 if you would like to get on the calendar!

Enjoy!

Suzy

Maggie & Ryan

2011-09-27T01:56:00.000-06:00

I had the delightful opportunity to photograph the below beautiful family a few weeks ago. I'm starting off the post with my favorite picture of the entire session...their two little daughters.

These little girls are so, so cute! Look at that hair on the baby! (Shhhhh...don't tell my little Ry-J about this baby's hair. She will be very, very jealous! Especially since this cute little lady is TWO days younger than my baby Ry-J!)

Here is the brother of the family! He was a little shy the day of the pictures...but I still managed to get him peeking around from the door.

I absolutely love this age...nine months old.

I'm wrapping up a huge commercial project in the next few weeks. I'm very, very excited to announce the project once it is complete.

I have a few family sessions left before the Christmas holiday...but call soon, because we don't know how long this great fall weather will last!

Until next time,

Suzy Oliveira
801-358-0831

#PSW = awesome

2011-09-10T15:35:00.000-06:00

I just returned from PHOTOSHOP WORLD! I went with my friend, Shaunna Sparks, and we enjoyed four days of crazy conversations about photography, f/stops, shutter speeds, lighting, 18% gray, 12.5% gray, spider lights, strobes, modifiers, and of course, Photoshop! If you wanted to meet a photography nerd, then Las Vegas was the place to be this past week.

I got to meet many of my photography heros: Frank Doorhof (went to THREE of his classes!), Cliff Maunter, David Ziser, and more. James Schmelzer returned my, "hello" when I passed him in the conference center. Very. Cool. Met some new friends, said hello to some old ones, and had a great time!

Here are a few shots from the Westcott lighting booth during the expo. I was told the first model, the Edward/Vampire look-a-like was from Utah.

Image taken at the Westcott Photobooth at Photoshop World 2011, Las Vegas.

There was an artist that painted the makeup on the below model. Amazing.

The day before the conference, I attended the pre-conference David Ziser workshop. It was a six-hour class that went through his lighting techniques. While it wasn't a portfolio-building workshop (there wasn't time for us to photograph the couple for our own portfolios), I managed to sneak in a few of the below shots. Whoot!

Of course, if these images were from a real wedding, I would have taken the time to photoshop out the signs and distractions out of the background.

Here he is! The man himself, photographer-in-action, David Ziser, teaching a lighting technique.

I managed to sneak right up next to David and snag this shot.

On the way home, we got a flat tire near St. George! Yikes! Thankfully, Miss Shaunna had AAA that came to our rescue!

Yours truly...so sad about a flat tire!

What does any photographer do that has a flat tire? Take pictures, of course! A special thanks to Brandon, Jerry, and Curtis who got us back on the road.

In other news, I've been working on an exciting commercial project that will be released January 2012. Stay tuned for more details!

Thanks for stopping by!

-Suzy

Added 9/10/11 at 5:00 PM:

I almost forgot to add these two pictures I took the last night of our stay! Enjoy!

Las Vegas, NV - September 8, 2011

Avondale Academy - Innovations Dance - Saratoga Springs

2011-08-09T00:58:00.001-06:00

I had the opportunity to photograph the performance of The 12 Dancing Princesses at Lehi High School for Innovations Dance at Avondale Academy.

Parents: if you would like to view the entire gallery and purchase a print (or digital download), visit this link:

http://suzyophotography.smugmug.com/event/12-Dancing-Princesses

Enjoy!

Click here to see the rest: http://suzyophotography.smugmug.com/event/12-Dancing-Princesses

Golding twins - phase two and three

2011-07-14T22:00:00.008-06:00

As mentioned in this post: http://suzyophotography.blogspot.com/2011/05/golding-twins.html, these darling little children are turning EIGHT this year!

I was hired by their mother to document their eighth year of life. Here are the delightful images from phase 2 (their school images, taken in late May), and phase 3 (gymnastics! taken earlier this week).

I'm starting with the gym pictures, because I just LOVE they way they turned out.

Below is BG on the uneven bars. We did a similar shot of her older sister, K, about 18 months ago. (In fact, the image taken of K won an honorable mention in a child portrait contest!) Whoot!

BG did a GREAT job for this take.

The "chalk" (sp?) shot was his coach's idea. Sweet!

Look at those arm muscles already in the works!

When we shot the below two images, I originally didn't like the way the ceiling reflected the light, so I had B's coach hold a gobo. Once I got the picture in post, I realized I LOVED the ceiling, so I brought up the contrast a bit in photoshop.

Merisa, here is your 'rope' shot! It turned out great! (And here is another one of the kids being silly at the end of the shoot!)

For phase two, we went to their school to capture the story of their love of education. The school was celebrating "Shakespeare" week, so some of the kids were dressed up as if they were from that time era.

What is school without recess?

For PE, the girl's class played a game called "sharks and lifeguards." All of the children sat in a circle, and there was a parachute over their legs. A few kids were selected to be the "sharks" and try to pull the other kids under the parachute, and a few others were the "lifeguards" trying to prevent the kids from getting pulled under. I've never heard so many kids squeal so loud! ;-)

The above images were my favorite series of the entire school shoot. They thought I was taking a few test shots...really I was shooting the entire time. I'm not sure what they were talking about, but I'd guess it to be that one of them had a little problem with a barking spider. (Ha ha ha!)

What is a barking spider you ask? It's my mother's polite way of saying "passing gas." (Love you, mom!)

Enjoy!

Suzy Oliveira
801-358-0831

Do you like these images? Do you want something similar for your child? Call me for more information! 801-358-0831.

Baby Krohn

2011-07-06T23:21:00.006-06:00

This handsome little man joined his family last week. I had the delightful opportunity to be the first to professionally photograph him.

Doesn't this look just melt your heart? Welcome, baby Krohn!

A few minutes after the above darling image, he fell asleep, and gave us a sweet preview of the many smiles to come.

Below is an image of the baby's stunning mother, Kalenn. (LOVE her eyes!)

And, a final shot of the baby with his daddy, Kris.

More images to come in the proofing gallery!

Thanks for stopping by,

Suzy Oliveira
801-358-0831

Nathan R - Missionary Pictures

2011-06-30T02:10:00.007-06:00

Before I have a bunch of darling ladies emailing me for his phone number, I must put a disclaimer here saying he is unavailable for the next two years. He is getting ready to serve an LDS (Mormon) mission to Argentina. (Sorry, ladies! Check back in 2013!)

I've known this handsome young man and his family for the past five years. I didn't realize how tall he had grown until we went to take these pictures! (He towers over me--I believe he said he is now 6'2"! That is quite a change from when I first met him at 13 years old!)

We had a great time taking these pictures on Tuesday in Provo, Utah. He was up for all kinds of pictures...and didn't mind the weird looks we got during the photo shoot.

I had to snap one of him sending a text message. Text messages are such a normal part of a teenager's life now-a-days. (In my day, I had a pager! When my friends called me, my best friend Jenna and I would have to pull over to find a pay phone to return a call.) Things sure have changed in 10 years!

LOVE these black and white images.

I have to end this post with a funny one of him pretending to squish the sun. We took this at the top of a hill in Provo, near a busy street. We had at least 10 cars honk or yell a comment ("say cheese!") while we were shooting. Thanks for being a trooper, Nate! More pics to come in the proofing gallery!

Amazing Abbey - part 2

2011-06-18T13:19:00.000-06:00

These images have been a few weeks in the works! These are the shots we tried to get in the previous post; however, the weather was so out of control that day that we had to settle with just the indoor studio images. Luckily, we had a break in the crappy weather and got an incredible sunset a few days later.

A few people have asked me if Abbey was using a trampoline to assist in the jump. Amazingly, no, she wasn't using anything.

We took the sunset pictures after I photographed Abbey's above picture, taken at the Alpine Art Center. I also photographed a few of her dancer friends and dance groups. Here are a few of the cute little ladies and their headshots.

I'm currently booking 2012 (and 2011, too! You aren't too late!) senior-class portraits, and also sport images (i.e. Dancers, rock climbers, wakeboarders, extreme bikers, football players, etc.) If you are interested in getting some unique pictures of you or a loved one, please call me!

I'm also open again for weddings. Now that my little bebe Ry-J is six months old, I ready to get back out there and document some fabulous weddings. Call me if you or someone you know is getting married. I'll give you a great deal.

Until later,

Suzy Oliveira
801-358-0831

A future cougarette...can you tell?!

2011-05-19T22:29:00.005-06:00

I had the amazing opportunity to photograph this darling little lady earlier this week. She graduates this year and has already been selected as a future BYU Cougarette dancer. (As if you can't tell how amazing she is by looking at these images!)

Favorite shot of the day:

I don't think I could jump that high or that graceful even in my dreams. I have two left feet when it comes to dancing. (All three of my sisters can dance on some level; I got the softball gene.) ;-)

Here are a few more studio delicious-ness...

A beautiful natural-light image we took in the doorway of the studio.

More natural-light images below:

And a few more straight-out-of-camera goodness. (Well, the second one I had to crop out Miss Shaunna, who was holding the light for me. Thanks, Shaunna!) The natural-light collage was taken about three minutes before the above images.

Thanks, Abbey, for letting me photograph you! Good luck with your future journey at BYU.

It's not too late to schedule a 2011 senior-class portrait session (or, if you are an early bird, I have booked a few upcoming 2012 grads, too!) Call me at 801-358-0831 for more details.

Thank you for stopping by, and keeping the blog alive!

The Roberto Project - phase 1

2011-05-14T11:53:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago, my father-in-law, Roberto, came to visit with his wife, Lela. Roberto has such a unique look with his mustache and beard. (His beard would make ZZ Top jealous! If you don't know who ZZ Top is, well, go watch Back to the Future part III (the courthouse festival part) and talk to my dad...he is a huge ZZ Top fan!)

While Roberto was here, we took a lot of pictures of him in various costumes for his modeling portfolio. (He has 50+ costumes!) Although we couldn't photograph them all, we picked a few of the best "looks" and went with it.

This first one he is wearing an early 20th-century outfit with a top hat and pocket watch. All of these images were (believe it or not) taken in my kitchen. It is so fun to play with light and manipulate it to create the mood needed for a photograph.

All of these pictures are nearly straight out of camera. (I only cropped and sharpened for the web.) Stay tuned for phase 2, 3, and 4. (We have Roberto as a cowboy, pirate, and more!) Enjoy!

I've been thinking about doing some senior-class mini sessions. It would be for those senior-class students who haven't had a chance (or time!) to have a full session, but need two or three images for mom (or grandma!) Send me an email if you are interested, and I'll tell you when and were to show up. (This could also work for any school-aged child as a "school picture" alternative.)

The beginner's photography class is in the works. Thank you for those that have expressed interest. I'll be in contact with you shortly.

Thanks for stopping by!

Suzy

Golding Twins

2011-05-09T23:34:00.002-06:00

Can you believe it's been 18 months since this post of K Golding?

Yes, it's true. For me, it's been a blink of an eye...for my dear friend Merisa, it has been her reality for the past eight years. These darling twins were born 18 months after her oldest daughter K (found here).

Continuing tradition of the project we did for her oldest daughter, we are documenting these darling little children through their eighth year of life. If you are a member (or know about) The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, then you know that children are baptized at the age of eight. (This is a very special time in a child's life.)

For this session, we decided to photograph it as Sunday-best attire for the boy, and a white dress for the girl. Enjoy these pictures, and stay tuned for the three remaining sessions of these angels.

For this picture, I decided to go a little on the HDR side. I think it turned out cute...in a fantasy-type way!

This collage was all straight out of camera.

I've had a few people submit an inquiry regarding an upcoming photography class, found on this link:

The first class is in the works, and it is geared toward those individuals who are beginning to learn how to use an SLR. (It's for those who got a new camera for Christmas, Mother's Day, etc, and don't know how to use it...beyond the automatic settings.) If you are interested, fill out the form found on the link and I'll send you an email with the enrollment date.

We have a lot of fun posts in the works: a pirate shoot, cowboy (with real horses!) and a few from PROM. (Yes! Can't wait for that one!)

Thanks for stopping by!

Suzy

Baby Tomlinson

2011-04-23T01:10:00.004-06:00

He's here! Let me introduce you to Miss Liz's baby. Baby G.

If you follow my blog, you know that I don't put children's names on the internet for privacy issues. I'm not going to say what baby G's real name is, but I am going to tell you that he was almost named FOX! (I secretly love the name Fox, it takes me back to the 13-year-old girl inside who had a crush on Fox Mulder from the X-Files.) ;-)

Ahhhhh, my two crushes from the big screen: Fox Mulder and Jack Sparrow. Wait, I wasn't 13 when I had a crush on Jack Sparrow. Maybe I was 31. (Wink!)

Whichever way you look at it, I was delighted to photograph this darling little baby with the Old Salt symbol. Arrrrr me hearties!

Do you know the last verse of the Pirates of the Caribbean song?

"We're beggars and blighters and ne'er do-well cads, Stand up me hearties, yo ho.

Aye, but we're loved by our mommies and dads,

Stand up me hearties, yo ho.

Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me"

I guarantee this little guy is well loved by his mommy and his daddy!

So many delightful little babies lately. Keep them coming! I love photographing newborns!

I've also posted a new page on top for some upcoming photography classes. If you are interested in taking a class, fill out the form found here:

Here is the text link: http://suzyophotography.blogspot.com/p/new-photography-classes.html

Until next time,

Suzy Oliveira

It's not giving up...it's giving more

2011-04-14T00:18:00.003-06:00

Miss Liz (my blog author) is on her maternity leave (that started today! Congrats, Liz!), so I (Suzy) thought I would chime in to tell you the story of this darling little angel.

Let me introduce you to Richard and Sheri. Richard and Sheri have been waiting for 7 years to have a child of their own. They both love children; teaching them, learning from them and just being around their fun, free-spirits. Their home has become one of the favorite places in the neighborhood for kids to hang out. When they learned that conceiving their own child would be impossible, they looked at all of the other options.

After years of trying, failing, hoping and praying for every opportunity that came their way, they only found disappointment in every one of their efforts. Their dream was not coming true, but they didn’t give up. Last year they lost an adoption after preparing for a little one for 7 months. The birth mom changed her mind at the hospital. (A situation I cannot even fathom.) Once again, broken hearted, they were left with little-to-no hope that they would ever have their chance at being parents.

Last August, Sheri's friend (their ray of sunshine, they call her), told her that she was pregnant and asked her if they would be willing to raise her child, pictured below.

The birth mother believed that she was carrying the child for them that they have been waiting for. Regardless of how hard she knew this would be for her, she knew that she could not provide for this little one, what these two parents could. So when this little angel was born, she signed the papers for an open adoption that made them parents! Little one’s birthmom is and will remain an important part of her life.

And so this little lucky baby wasn't given up...she was given more. The love that radiated from Richard and Sheri was so tangible, you could almost touch it. This little one is going to have a beautiful life with her family.

Above: Comforted in her daddy's arms...

Many of you saw this one on Facebook...I caught her with a little grin!

Can this baby be any more gorgeous?

Look at that face! So cute!

Well, they ARE a girl's best friend...

2011-03-28T21:15:00.002-06:00

Last weekend, Miss Lucky Duck Suzy had the irresistible opportunity to shoot perhaps her most beautiful model to date. And I'm not talking about the adorable brunette pictured below (as lovely as she may be), I'm talking... DIAMONDS!!

Philip & Co, a delectable jeweler in Salt Lake City, decided to update their website to be as sparkly as their merchandise, so it was time for some drool-worthy shots of their trinkets.

Ah, what I wouldn't give to have some of these pieces in my jewelry box. Philip & Co Jewelers are located at 150 East 2100 South in Salt Lake City, so if you're in the market for some gasp-worthy bling, head on over and check them out!

Now might be a good time to mention that Suzyo Photography is available for all your commercial/product photography needs. Whether your business is big or small, Suzy shoots it all! Even if you're like me (read: visual-creativity challenged) and aren't sure what you want or need, Suzy can help create the perfect project to promote your wares. Call or email for an estimate.

-Liz

American Classic

2011-03-13T14:44:00.004-06:00

Doesn't that image just grab you somewhere deep and powerful and not let go? This past week, Suzy had a photo shoot with a real American hero and his lovely family.

This is Matt, aka Mr. Awesome. He is currently on active duty in the U.S. Air Force and has been deployed to Iraq three times (!), awaiting on a possible fourth tour later this year.

((Would you believe that last shot was straight out of camera?! No digital magic, just a whole heck of a lot of photographic skill. Go Suzy!))

I love that last image. Looks like Matt is ready to star in the next epic, Oscar-winning war drama, hitting a theater near you Memorial Day weekend 2011. Of course, this next shot really seems to illustrate what most soldiers are probably ready for: the opportunity to be back home with their loving families once again.

Enter sweet, loving family! Could these children be any cuter?! Talk about a perfect homecoming.

I'm almost too jealous to mention this, but Matt's beautiful wife Megan gave birth to that adorable little baby only six weeks ago. Six weeks! I look worse than that six weeks after a brownie. All I can think is that Megan must be blessed for the great sacrifice she and her husband make for our country.

What a wonderful, poignant photo shoot, highlighting a classic, American family. More great work from suzyo photography to come!
-Liz

Baby J. That is J.J. for Jared Junior. (Really!)

2011-03-03T22:36:00.005-07:00

Here is bebe J. He is an absolute doll, and a clone of his dad, Jared.

This little guy was due to arrive AFTER my baby in December, but he made an early entrance mid-November. By the size of him, you'd never guess he was an early bird!

He was quite the trooper for the photoshoot today. He just sat back and enjoyed the love of his parents.

These pics were taken earlier today, March 3, 2011.

Enjoy!

-Suzy

Beautiful Liza

2011-02-28T21:56:00.005-07:00

Wow! Isn't she so pretty? I couldn't decide if I liked the images better in natural light, or with the off-camera flash right at sunset.

I'll let you decide...

Liza and her friend couldn't believe the below shot was real straight-out-of-camera. (Yep, it is! If you don't believe me, schedule a session and I'll show you!)

Images taken earlier today (2/28/11) near my home in Lehi, Utah. (It's hard to believe that the previous post (with nearly 10 inches of snow!) were taken on Friday, February 25, and the above images were taken three days later. (Gotta love the Utah weather!)

And, this is a perfect time to announce my class of 2011 special!

Book your senior session before March 31, and receive 25 graduation announcement collages FREE! Session includes natural light and off-camera flash, a great combination for some powerful images. Sessions start at $299. Call 801-358-0831 for more details.

Until next time...thanks for visiting!

-Suzy

Winter Wonderland

2011-02-25T14:28:00.009-07:00

That dang Groundhog clearly has no idea what he's talking about. Early spring, my foot! When I woke up this morning, my poor retinas were blinded by the ghastly sight of nearly a foot of horrid, frigid snow. While I slapped on the slippers and hid away in the warmth of my abode, Suzy - being the good mommy that she is - bundled up the kiddos and headed out for some frosty fun. Oh, and she brought her camera, of course.

I think the desire to throw things at cute little neighbor girls is genetically encoded into every little boy. Of course, there are consequences...

He'll learn. Personally, I think he got lucky with just a bit of snow in the face. Girls don't mess, my little friend.

Looking at these pictures, I almost wish I had been brave enough to head out with my own little ones to enjoy the flakes before the sun came out. Almost. - Liz

Hanging the moon...

2011-02-24T23:29:00.003-07:00

Suzy here. I took these pictures late last week during an awesome full-moon rise to practice some off-camera flash techniques. I wasn't planning on posting the images to the blog; however, I've received so many comments on my personal Facebook page that I thought I would share.

And, as I stated in my Facebook album, I think the images turned out interesting...in a silly sort of way. (Ha!) Enjoy!

The top image is my daughter, and the bottom two are the sons of my good friend, Shaunna.

2011-02-21T11:24:00.015-07:00

Since Suzy already gave me such a fabulous introduction, I'm going to try to keep this short. My name is Liz, and I'm super excited to have the opportunity to help Suzy out with this blog. I love her photography, and I love to write, so this is sort of a perfect combo for me. Plus, it gives me an excuse to blog stalk SuzyO Photography, which if I'm being honest, I was already doing.

I have always loved great photography. Many years ago I tried my own hand at the craft, but found that, while I have an eye for appreciation, I just don't have that natural artistic talent that it takes to be a great photographer. That's okay. Not all basketball lovers can be Kobe Bryant. Some of us are meant to play ball in our front yard and watch the NBA from the comfort of the stands.

What I love about Suzy's photographic style is that her images always feature clean lines and bright, bold color. But, of course, if you've perused her gallery, you already knew that. What you might not know is that Suzy also has an uncanny knack for capturing near-perfect images in not-so-perfect circumstances.

The photo session she did for my family last fall was the first time I have ever had family pictures taken, and the reason is this: I have terribly un-photographic children. Sure, they're cute, but they are horrible, horrible posers. First, we'll take my daughter. She is a total drama queen, in the most theatrical sense possible. She loves to make faces, so the second you put a camera in front of her, you get this:

This was the best (re: most normal) picture I could get on her historic first day of Kindergarten.

So, of course, during our photo shoot, this little girl was in rare form. Fortunately, not only did we get several great shots of her, but somehow Suzy was able to pull out this gem in the middle of a world-class marathon of face-pulling. It's a Grandma favorite:

Then there's my son. The best way to describe him is that he's like a shark; if he stops moving, he'll die. I haven't proven this fact yet, but I'm still pretty sure it's true. Getting him to actually stop and pose is nearly impossible, and he gets extremely grumpy when repeatedly ask to do so. But in a true test of her talent, Suzy somehow managed to get more great shots of this little guy than of any of the rest of us. Miraculous!

Of course, I could go on and on about why Suzy is such a great photographer, but really, I think her work speaks for itself. I hope everyone enjoys viewing her masterpieces (and hopefully being able to be immortalized by Suzy yourselves!), and I look forward to helping present future projects. Suzy has some great photo shoots in the works!

-Liz

Introducing Liz

2011-02-18T00:54:00.001-07:00

As we all know, the photography blog was pathetically neglected in 2010. For a while, I was posting updates to my Facebook page; however, Facebook does one thing terribly wrong for photographers. It shows little pictures. Who really wants to look at little pictures when we can have the below HUGE-O-MONGO pictures?

Enter Liz.

Isn't she beautiful? And her family? Darling.

We took these pictures last fall when I was a huge pregnant lady with baby RJ.

Liz has two kids, and a third one on the way. There is no doubt that the third child will be just as cute as the above little beauties.

There are a few things you must know about Liz. She is an actor, model, and my almost next-door-neighbor. (If you don't count the five houses between us.)

She is also terribly witty and hilarious in her writing style.

AND, she is going to be my accomplice in keeping this blog up to date.

I'm very excited for this next step in my business, as it's my first sort-of-employee/helper. I can't wait for you to meet her. I hope you enjoy her blog posts. No worries, I'll still be chiming in, too, so don't think I've abandoned you. (I just need a little help!)

So, enjoy her pictures, and enjoy her posts! She'll be on here soon enough.

In other updates, we've got some GREAT shoots coming up. I'm very excited to show the results.

Stay tuned!

Later,

Suzy

More changes are coming!

2011-02-14T01:14:00.000-07:00

A fresh new look for 2011 - better colors, bigger pictures, better (flash) header, and most importantly (and my personal favorite), you can comment via your facebook profile. I hope you enjoy it! There are a few more design changes coming, so stay tuned.

Here is a cute new picture of RJ. She is modeling a hat that my mother-in-law made, and is for sale in her etsy shop, LelaLikes. (Click here for more details.)

I'm still looking for a bride for a stock photography shoot. If you are interested in getting some FREE images, send me an email.

Thanks for stopping by!

A new year, a new life, new focus

2011-01-29T20:10:00.005-07:00

We welcomed our third baby into our family late November 2011. Her arrival has been the highlight of our home, and made the holidays extra special.

Here is my little RJ.

I love her face expression in the above image. All squished up and annoyed at my constant clicking of the camera. Get used to it, baby girl! When you joined my family, you signed up to be photographed...a lot!

I love the new trend of the skinny bands for little baby girls. So cute.

The above image is probably my favorite one of the series. She was about eight days old when I took these pictures, and "they" say babies only smile for gas pains at this age. Gas pains or not, I love her cute little smile!

This image was taken on her blessing day in early January 2011. I fell in love with her dress; it looks like a mini wedding dress! Both black and white images were both taken in my family room with natural light.

The maternity leave is OVER! I'm ready and eager to start shooting again. Do you know anyone getting married? Have them send me an email to suzyo (at) suzyophotograph (dot) com, and I'll give them a great deal for 2011. I've got a few new tricks regarding off-camera flash and natural light techniques.

Additionally, I've been slowly building up my stock portfolio. If you (or anyone you know) likes to model, please send me a recent picture and I may use you in an upcoming photo shoot. More details will come, but I'm currently looking for teenagers to participate in local (Lehi-area) shoot.

I am also looking for a bride (married or not!) for my stock portfolio. You must already have a wedding dress. So, if you know anyone that is up to being "shot" in their wedding gown (ha!), this could be a great opportunity for them to get some stunning images for FREE.

Until later,

Suzy Oliveira

Hello! Is anyone one there?!

2010-09-19T21:44:00.006-06:00

You wouldn't think so, given my lack of blog posts!

I've been slowly migrating to making updates on my suzyo photography Facebook page, found here:
suzyo photography

The updates are much easier in Facebook, and my clients can tag his/her photos! So, if you find this blog hasn't been updated in a while, head over to Facebook and drop me a line. (I LOVE comments!)

Here are a few shots of my kiddos, taken September 2010. And, in case you didn't see on my Facebook profile, I've got a third child on the way, due around Thanksgiving!

Such a bad, bad blogger...

2010-04-06T22:53:00.004-06:00

...but at least my suzyo Facebook page is current! Click here to see some recent work on my Facebook page! (And, I'd love it if you became a fan, too!)

Jared & Sarah

2009-12-11T22:50:00.003-07:00

Yes, I know I'm extremely backlogged on my blog updates; however, I had to fast-forward my posts to today, when I captured the below beautiful couple.

Meet Jared and Sarah...my neighbors! (Talk about pressure...I didn't want to mess up this shoot...I'll have to drive by their house every day! Ha ha!) Jared has lived next to us for the past three years, and now he is married to beautiful Sarah. (We are excited you are here, Sarah! Welcome to good 'ol Lehi!)

But seriously, can this couple be any more beautiful? I claim first-rights of photography of their babies and family. (Ha!)

Watch this blog, and my Facebook page for more updates.

Images taken at Sleepy Ridge Golf Course today in sub-zero weather. Enjoy!

Baby Young

2009-11-17T19:43:00.005-07:00

A beautiful sneak peek for the Young family. This beautiful little boy was only about one week old when we took the below image. More to come.

Beautiful Kennady

2009-11-07T21:28:00.002-07:00

The mother of this darling girl is one of my good friends in Lehi. She came up with a fabulous idea to celebrate her daughter's eighth year of life by documenting her through images.

We've scheduled four sessions to document this year, and we just completed the second session tonight, which was the family session.

After digging through the images, the below shot is one of my favorites. (The dad was sooooo over taking pictures at this point, but I'm so glad he hung in there with me to get the below single shot of their daughter.)

The below images were from two weeks ago...this is the first chance I've had to post them.

Keep watching my facebook page for more sneak peeks!

Rocking the off-camera flash...

2009-10-29T00:42:00.002-06:00

...and loving it.

Look at this gorgeous bride:

One of my BFF, Jenna:

And finally, there is something about this picture that makes me wish I could be 18 again. So carefree. Love it.

Bishop Twins

2009-10-12T01:43:00.006-06:00

More of the darling Bishop Twins. Prints and enlargements are now available in the proofing gallery. Click here to order prints: www.suzyophotography.instaproofs.com

Thanks, Dave & Mandi for allowing me to capture your babies! Enjoy!

Beautiful Katie

2009-10-05T23:31:00.003-06:00

I know this beautiful little lady from my neighborhood where I grew up. (Good 'ol Orem, Utah.) I CANNOT believe she is graduating. (I'm getting so old!) Yikes.

Congratulations Katie on your upcoming graduation. You are so beautiful.

Me and mine

2009-10-02T14:04:00.003-06:00

So, I was supposed to wait until Christmas to show you my family pictures, but I just couldn't wait. Sorry. Merry Christmas in October from my family and me!

Here are my two children. My daughter is four and a half, and my son is almost two.

My daughter, whom I refer to online as "Princess."

My son, "Tank." and yours truly. (We call him 'Tank' because during his first year of life he was quite a large baby. He has now dropped to the low-90th percentile for weight, but he is still above the 100-percentile mark for his length.)

I've wanted to get this shot of my family for the LONGEST time. Thank you to my friends Nando and Megan for your help with this shot. (Megan was getting the kids to sit still, while Nando took a bunch of pictures.) The image was edited by me. Nando, if you ever decide to not be a dentist, I think you could be a photographer.

By the way, I should probably address Nando by his official name: Dr. Fernando Pessoa of Draper Smiles (801-571-6541). (If you go see him as a new patient, he will give you a $30 dinner gift certificate!) Tell him you saw his picture on my blog and he will give you the gift card.

Here is what Dr. Pessoa and Megan look like:

I've got many more images of Nando and Megan and their darling two-year-old daughter that are in the works. I'll post more as I get them edited.

A doubly sweet sneak peek

2009-09-28T22:31:00.001-06:00

...for Mandi (and Dave)

These little twins were easier than one newborn session! They both had such sweet temperaments. More images to come.

Baby Pratt

2009-09-12T17:27:00.002-06:00

This darling little guy was one of the strongest newborns I've met! He was so strong he kept kicking out of the posing positions. But, we did get the following darling shots!

Congrats Lauren & Rhett. Your little guy is so handsome.

Hall family

2009-09-08T00:48:00.005-06:00

Look at this darling family. They were so fun to photograph. Each person had a distinct personality that portrays through the images.

I don't know if you can tell in this image, but the sign says, "No Trespassing. Violators will be shot." Very funny.

There is something about blue eyes that I LOVE...

So cute.

Could she be any more beautiful?

Such a striking couple. Wow.

Angela & Phil...together forever

2009-08-13T23:15:00.001-06:00

...and I have the pictures to prove it!

To order images from this wedding, click here: www.suzyophotography.instaproofs.com

I loved the way this image turned out.

I love the arches of the Bountiful Temple. We had to incorporate them into a picture!

Another favorite image. Angela, you made a beautiful bride! Congratulations on your marriage.

Congratulations, Paige!

2009-08-09T11:27:00.004-06:00

Paige won the 2010 California Junior Miss pageant last night! Congratulations, Paige!

Scroll down to see more images of this beauty.

Good luck at the national competition, Paige!

Sneak peek for Paige

2009-08-04T14:50:00.006-06:00

Beautiful Paige! This lovely little lady is getting ready to graduate this year. Isn't she beautiful?

More to come...

Angela & Phil sneak peek

2009-07-08T00:24:00.005-06:00

The below (darling!) couple, Angela and Phil, were recently married at the Bountiful LDS Temple.

A few people told me the Bountiful Temple looks exactly like the Timpanogos Utah Temple (in American Fork). I disagree. The Bountiful Temple has unique features that made Angela and Phil's wedding day so beautiful.
These doors are on the East side of the temple.

The above images shows the bride and her former BYU roommates and best friends.

I loved the groom's tuxedo! (The stripes look awesome!)

So in love. (And such a beautiful day to get married!)

More images to come...

Another long overdue update

2009-06-25T22:40:00.004-06:00

I just blinked and it's been over a month since I've updated the blog! I found a sneaky new outlet to show recent work...it's called Facebook! If you find the blog hasn't been updated in a while, check out my Facebook page to see a few new albums by clicking here.

In the mean time, look at this sneak peek for the Golding Family. The below darling little guy was ten days old when I took these pictures, and he is absolutely breathtaking.

Please do not copy, download, print, or duplicate these images in any way.

So beautiful. He (almost) makes me want another baby!

The dad was a trooper for this shot!

Doesn't he look so peaceful?

Two seconds later..."get me out of here!"

The beautiful mother and baby.

Thank you, Enoch, for helping me get this shot!

A long awaited update

2009-05-22T12:33:00.008-06:00

Whew! It's been a busy few weeks! (But I wouldn't have it any other way!)

Here are a few pictures of recent shoots that I haven't had a chance to show. More to come.

First, I'll start with a few more of Kimi and Craig, as they have been anxiously awaiting more sneak peeks of their stunning images.

UPDATE: To view the entire wedding and order prints, click here

Thank you to the tourists who moved out of our way for this shot!

I LOVE shooting into the sun...I think it adds an element of romance in a surreal setting.

Taken in the Financial District in San Francisco.

Some friendly locals let us use their car for a few minutes to get this shot. It turned out awesome. (Some of you have already seen this shot on my website, but this is the first time I've put it on the blog.)

Two darling children chasing on a railroad track near my studio in Lehi.

It rained the entire day of this shoot...so we made it work in our favor! Doesn't she look so cute with her umbrella?

This darling couple will be getting married in a few weeks here in Utah. I'm the lucky one that gets to document their wedding!

We just took Angela's bridal portraits earlier this week. I'll post some as soon as the images are ready to view!

Kelsey's senior-class portrait

2009-05-12T13:59:00.004-06:00

The below images are a sneak peek of a senior class session that I'm editing. Isn't she gorgeous?

I also have a TON of images from shoots from the past few weeks I'll be posting in the near future.

Can it be any more enticing?

2009-04-27T23:36:00.008-06:00

As I’ve been editing Craig & Kimi’s wedding pictures, I can’t help but dream about someday returning to the Bay Area. It was sooooo amazing!

What am I supposed to do, when I saw that Southwest Airlines was doing a 50% off sale (today only) on flights to/from the Bay Area? I booked a flight, of course! Booked. Done. Returning. I am returning to explore the city in May!

And, yes, I’ll be scheduling a few family, children, engagement, and/or senior portrait sessions while I’m there!

Here are the details:
Photography sessions: Friday, May 15, 2009
Time: email suzyo@suzyophotography.com, or call 801-358-0831 to secure a time slot (Note: there are only a few slots available. Email early to get the best time!)

What is included?

A 60-minute photography session time
All post-production processing (Photoshop)
Online proofing gallery
20-25 images, in both color and black and white, for 40-50 images total
A CD or DVD of all final files, with a photographer’s copyright release (print an unlimited amount of enlargements!)
CD or DVD will contain high-resolution, print-ready files (ready for enlargements) and smaller, web-ready files for your blog, Facebook, or email.

PRICE: $350 per session! THE LOWEST PRICE EVER! (A $350+ savings from normal pricing...only for San Francisco!)

Call 801-358-0831 to secure your time!

In the mean time, here are a few more of Kimi and Craig…

Baker Beach in San Francisco at sunset. So romantic!

The above image was taken earlier in the afternoon at the Marin Headlands overlook.

At the Oakland Temple the day of the wedding. I couldn't decide if I liked the above picture in color, or in black and white, so you get to see both! Ladies, you all look so beautiful!

More and more (and more) pictures to come!

I left my heart in San Francisco...

2009-04-19T21:06:00.005-06:00

Seriously. I'm in LOVE with San Francisco. I just returned from documenting Kimi & Craig's wedding. I'm still on cloud nine from the trip. Everything about the trip was A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. The weather was perfect, the city was fabulous, and the people? Gracious and kind. (Although I was politely corrected by a local San Franer than the cable cars are NOT trolley cars.) Ha! My mistake!

Here is a sneak peek from the downtown bride/groom session. These pictures were taken on Friday in the Financial District of San Francisco, the day before the wedding at the Oakland LDS Temple.

Kimi and Craig, THANK YOU for allowing me to share in your special day. More pictures to come...

And, yes, I've realized that the blog hasn't been updated for several weeks! Here are a few more pictures of past shoots to share.

Baby Lawyer

The above picture is my new 1970's edit.

The below images feature a darling mature couple getting married in May.

Could the girl pictured below be any more gorgeous? WOW. The below pictures are a sneak peek of her senior class portrait session that I'm currently editing. Isn't she stunning?

SENIOR CLASS PORTRAIT SESSION SALE!
Attention Class of 2009!
It's not too late to get your senior portrait session! Book your photography session by May 10, 2009 to get the following offer!

*60-minute outdoor photography session
*All post-production processing and image touch-up
*Online proofing gallery
*CD or DVD (with copyright release) of all final images
*FREE graduation announcement design!
*20 FREE graduation announcements

All for $199!

Call 801-358-0831 to reserve your spot! (These spots will fill very quickly!)

Saddle Up for Wishes!

2009-03-16T21:39:00.006-06:00

SuzyO Photography is proud to be a donating a family photography session to the upcoming Make-A-Wish charity auction.

The benefit gala will be held Saturday, March 28, 2009 at the Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown. The Make-A-Wish foundation is trying to raise $150,000 to help grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions.

Individual seats can be purchased for $125 each, or a table of ten for $1250. Contact Becky Rhead, Manager of Special Events at 801-262-1294 to purchase tickets, or go to www.makeawishutah.org/giving/tufw.htm for more details! The event is open to everyone; if you are in a position to help these wonderful children, I encourage you to attend! (And, don’t forget to bid on the SuzyO Photography package during the silent auction!)

Side note: I have a dear friend who directly benefited from the Make-A-Wish foundation when he was battling cancer during his youth. He will tell you that the experience he was granted through the Make-A-Wish foundation changed his life. I’m honored and excited to be part of helping children gain a life-enriching experience!

In other news, here are some photos from a recent shoot with a lovely couple, Kimi and Craig. This wonderful couple will be getting married in a few weeks in Oakland, CA, and I promise to post pictures! For now, enjoy their engagment pictures!

Baby Blevins

2009-02-24T23:48:00.005-07:00

I have soooo many favorites from this shoot I can hardly stand it. This little guy, born a few weeks ago, stole my heart.

Doesn't he take your breath away?

I secretly wanted to sneak the baby in my camera bag and take him home!

Here is the big brother. (And yes, he IS just as darling as the baby!)

Check out the below series...

Doesn't the mom look fabulous?!?! (I secretly wish I looked like her two weeks after giving birth!)

Getting married? Know someone who is getting married?
Beginning now, until March 31, if you refer a bride who books any wedding package A thru C, you will get a family session FREE! Call 801-358-0831 for more details! Wedding packages start around $1200! Visit the suzyo photography website for a full pricelist. (Not getting married in Utah? No problem. I am available for travel.)

Terms:
Only applicable to wedding packages A-C
Wedding package must be reserved by 3/31/09
Wedding session must be complete by 9/30/09
Are you the bride? Refer yourself! Instead of a family session, call me for a list of substitutions available!
Family session includes up to 90 minutes of session time, 20-25 images in both color and b/w (40-50 images total), with a CD of digital negatives! (A $650+ value!)
All family sessions earned through the Refer a Bride sale must be complete by 9/30/09
Sale may end without notice, offer subject to availability

The Hupp Family

2009-02-10T22:35:00.001-07:00

The oldest daughter was one of my first clients...long before I had my Nikon. (Her mother let me practice my evolving photography skills on her baby!) Thanks for sticking with me, Beckee! Your family is too precious!

Lyndsey & Brenden's wedding day

2009-01-21T00:26:00.001-07:00

What a lovely day in Riverside! Here are the darling pictures I promised I would post from Brenden & Lyndsey's wedding. Enjoy!

The beautiful Redlands LDS Temple.

Her hair was so pretty...I HAD to take a picture!

The bride and her beautiful older sister.

Don't you love the stickers on the apples? I thought it was such a cute idea!

Lynden

2009-01-02T20:21:00.002-07:00

Easy, ladies. I think this one is taken. Isn’t he so cute? (Do teenagers still say “cute”?) In my day, it would have been “babe” or “fat jackson”. (Yes, I said, “fat jackson”.)

Anyway, pick your adjective. I think anyone would agree that Lynden is quite handsome.

These pictures were taken in Riverside, CA.

Lynden and his "Lady friend". (Isn't she so beautiful?) They make quite a pair. I think the above picture is my favorite picture from the session. Lynden's expression says it all.

Yes, his eyes are REALLY that blue! I told Lynden's mother that I'd photograph her children anytime...her kids are so stinkin beautiful.

And, as a reminder, the WHITE sale ends January 31! Here are the details:

Book your wedding session before January 31, and enjoy 20% off any B, C, or D wedding package purchase!

The WHITE sale continues for babies and children...book your newborn or child’s session before January 31 and enjoy 20% off your digital negative purchase!

Terms: All sessions must be booked prior to January 31, 2009.
Photography session must be complete before March 31, 2009.
Babies and newborns: price valid for immediate family only
Weddings: Announcement and/or thank-you note printing costs excluded.

Wheeler Farm

2008-12-19T22:14:00.002-07:00

These family pictures were taken at Wheeler Farm. Don't let your eyes fool you...the pictures were taken a few months ago (before the COLD!). Now that I'm officially caught up on my editing, I'll be posting more pictures from previous shoots.

Enjoy!

I think the above picture is my favorite from the entire series.

Let there be light...I mean, WHITE!

2008-11-18T09:51:00.004-07:00

I finally left the dark side, and completely re-launched http://www.suzyophotography.com/. Enjoy the fresh colors, white background, and updated pictures.

And, to celebrate it all, I’m doing a WHITE sale! Book your wedding session before January 31, and enjoy 20% off any B, C, or D wedding package purchase!

The WHITE sale continues for babies and children…book your newborn or child’s session before January 31 and enjoy 20% off your digital negative purchase!

Terms: All sessions must be booked prior to January 31, 2009.
Photography session must be complete before March 31, 2009.
Babies and newborns: price valid for immediate family only
Weddings: Announcement and/or thank-you note printing costs excluded.

Announcement!

HOLY COW! IT MOOS BE CHRISTMAS!

I'm excited to announce that the suzyophotography Isabella Carson frames will be sold again at the upcoming Holy Cow Boutique this week! Here are the details:

Where: Pleasant Grove Recreation Center

65 E 200 S. Pleasant Grove, Utah

Time: Wednesday – Friday, 9 AM – 8 PM

Saturday, 9 AM – 5 PM

Additionally, I've been in contact with Mark Mabry, the photographer of the "Reflections of Christ" exhibit. (I'm sure you've seen the slideshow floating around the internet...it is FANTASTIC!)

I secured the ability to be the first distributor in Utah to sell his fine artwork. I'm honored (and very excited) to share Mark's talent with the people of Utah County. The images below (and more) will be available for purchase at the Holy Cow Boutique. I'm sure these images will sell very, very fast.

All images (c) Mark Mabry.

Lyndsey & Brenden...

2008-10-27T00:19:00.002-06:00

...are so cute! And soooo in love! (So much so that they moved their wedding date up to November!) I can't wait to shoot the wedding, and I PROMISE pictures will be posted here.

Brenden is one of BYU's quarterbacks, and lucky me, he didn't mind when I brought along a football for the photoshoot!

Tutus and Tea Parties

2008-10-22T21:16:00.003-06:00

I recently had the opportunity to shoot some images for a darling company called Tutus and Tea Parties. Who wouldn't love taking pictures of cute little girls in tutus and pettiskirts?

The child in me loved this shoot! And, if you look close, you might find my curly-haired princess as one of the models!

RCT, my nephew

2008-10-14T00:06:00.002-06:00

My beautiful new nephew.

He takes my breath away...seriously!

Who ever said bigger isn't better?

2008-10-04T01:03:00.006-06:00

Ahhhh, BIG pictures! Yippee. I'm so happy I could do a cartwheel! Hopefully in the near future I'll go back and update the previous blog posts to contain the larger pictures.

For now, ENJOY the GREATNESS of BIG pictures!

Isn't this little guy a doll?

Here is his darling little brother...

*****DIGITAL NEGATIVES and PRINT SALE!**********
Happy October! For each session booked by October 31, 2008, you will receive a 50% discount off the digital negative and/or print enlargment prices!

Here are the details:
Session fee: $175
Includes session time (location of your choice - up to two hours), post-production processing, four-day online proofing gallery, and a holiday card design of your choice!

Digital negatives:
Regular price: $498... SALE Price: $249 (BOOK NOW and SAVE 50%!)
Includes CD or DVD of ALL images
Copyright release (print as many pictures as you like! *Think* Christmas gifts for grandparents!)
25 Holiday cards (or birth announcements)
5x7 proofs of each image
OFFER CODE: BLOGFAN

I only have a few slots left before the holidays, so call early! (All holiday orders are due by November 20.)

NOTE: The mini-sessions offered during the Utah Valley Women's Expo are full. (THANK YOU!)

Miracle toddler!

2008-08-04T21:28:00.000-06:00

This little toddler started her life at a mere 3 lbs 12 oz. Look at her now! Isn't she a doll?

Sorry for the crop on the below pictures...blogger and flickr aren't working well together!

Sorry boys...

2008-07-21T02:33:00.001-06:00

But this one is taken! Isn't she stunning?

Isn't love beautiful?!

2008-06-22T22:20:00.000-06:00

Look at this beautiful couple! I can only imagine how darling their children will be!