Hadley Spagna Photography

The Hadley Spagna Photography Blog Has Moved

2008-09-01T20:54:00.004-04:00

http://www.hadleyspagna.com/blog

Thank you for your hosting this blog for almost three years blogspot. You're a wonderful blog host. The new blog is hosted on my server and has some more features, so it's time for me to make the move.

Thanks to wordpresses handy import feature I was able to pack up these old posts and take them with me! Yep, going all the way back to November of 2005!

See you over at the new blog!

Just a reminder....

2006-12-10T14:04:00.000-05:00

Today is the last day for the opportunity to write my final 2006 blog entry. The person that writes the entry that gets published will receive a NEW iPod Shuffle.

Thank you for all your entries. Every one has been special and I've truly enjoyed reading them!

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Happy Birthday Blog!

2006-11-20T18:48:00.000-05:00

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BLOG!!

Can you believe this blog is a year old already? Where does the time go?

Wow, what a busy season it has been! All those referrals are keeping my phone ringing and calendar full. THank you! I'll never neglect my clients, but I will neglect my blog. That's why you haven't heard from me in a while. My clients come first.

Your emails have been amazing. I had no idea so many people read this blog! As a result, I'm now feeling tremendous pressure to be witty and entertaining and am fearful of falling short. In fact, I've put so much pressure on myself to come up with a fantastic blog post, that for the longest time, I couldn't think of anything.

Celebrating this blogs First Birthday should involve a present, right? I'm having a tough time coming up with a witty and entertaining blog post, right? ::lightbulb illuminates over head:: Why not give away a birthday present to the person who can come up with a witty and entertaining blog post for me?

Yep, that's right. Write my next blog entry and get a birthday present!

What kind of present?

The new, adorable, portable iPod Shuffle? I want one!

© 2006 Apple

Here're the nitty gritty details:

Who: You (you can be anyone who is reading this and can type a witty and entertaining blog entry)
What: A BRAND-E NEW Apple iPod Shuffle (love it!) shipped to you
Where: http://www.hadleyspagna.blogspot.com
When: Your blog post must be sent to me by 12/10/06. (Entries with photos get bonus points) It will be uploaded to my blog in December of 2006. The present receiver will be notified by 12/15/06.
Why: I'm not feeling witty and entertaining right now.
How: Send me your post via email

Do you have any questions? Send me an email.

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Did you notice those adorable children at the top of this post? This family is so warm and welcoming. Somehow, (osmosis?) their home has the same qualities. As soon as I entered their home, I immediately felt like I had been there before. M felt like an old friend instantly. I could have stayed all day with this family (in fact, come to think about it, I did stay for snack time). Thank you dear M, for such a wonderful session!

Beauty Within

2006-10-07T00:40:00.000-04:00

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

Reflecting on this session one thing came to mind: Beauty Within. This family radiates beauty. H and E are more than beautiful on the outside. They are gorgeous on the inside too. Just minutes after arriving to their home we were hanging out in the backyard having fun. The click of my camera's shutter was a helpful reminder that I was working.

R is talented beyond words with her ability to make her home welcoming to the soul and attractive to the eye. I learned that she practices Feng Shui. Now I've got yoga and feng shui on my to do list.

I have the coolest, most beautiful, fun and exciting clients. Thank you for selecting me to be your photographer!

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IN BORDERS NOW

Well, my Blog Reader Bonus has already been collected. Keep reading for a super Birthday Blog Bonus next month when the Hadley Spagna Photography Blog turns ONE! Yes, this blog will officially be one year old this November.

Check out my work in person this month in Borders on the Post Road in Fairfield. This is a great opportunity to see what my work looks like outside of a computer screen.

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LIMITED APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

My weekends for 2006 have been booked for almost a month now. I have seven weekday appointments available this year. If you're pregnant and are due in November, December or January call me right away so I can get you on my calendar. January is already starting to fill up quickly.

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WHAT TO WEAR AT THE PUMPKIN PATCH

Jack O' Booties. What else?

Five, four, three, two, one...

2006-09-10T21:43:00.000-04:00

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography
*** This is not my daughter, but Baby R looks just like her! It's an uncanny resemblance! ***

Sounds like a countdown, right? Well, those are the respective ages of the adorable cousins above. I've never seen a group of kids (never mind five kids five and under) that played as nicely and enjoyed each other's company as much as these kids. I arrived at my client's home prepared for what happens when my kids get together with their cousins ( i.e. packed some Excedrin in the camera bag). Can you believe I didn't need it? This is an amazing, special group of children. Not only are they close in age, but they all have a close relationship with one-another.

Leaving the shoot I was disappointed because I wanted to stay and take more photographs. The toughest part of this session was wanting to devote the whole session to each individual child. They're all so unique, and all so photogenic. I left (sans headache and) still wanting to take more photographs!

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NEW!

Since I'm almost completely booked for 2006, I've got to starting planning for next year. I'll be offering something new in 2007, but I'm not going to dish until 2007! (Okay, maybe December 2006.)

That's not the only new news! In the next few months I'll be unveiling a brand new, shiny website. I promise I'll keep the blog posted with updates.

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NO BIB? NO WORRIES!

How many times have you left the house and forgotten to pack a bib for the baby? If you're like me, you've done it once or twice (a week). Have you seen or heard of Kipiis? If not, click on Kipiis to visit their website. Kipiis are brightly colored adjustable clips that will turn a napkin, dishtowel, cloth diaper or any piece of fabric into a bib. I love these things!

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ON DISPLAY

Stop by the Fairfield Borders in October and check out my work in person! If you walk in the back door, you can check out some of my husband's work too. Yep, Neil and I are trying to take over Borders. Neil's my husband and a mortgage finance executive by day. By night, he's a sports writer. His first book, Welcome to Pottersville, is on the shelf so to speak. It's actually on a table. Be sure to check out that handsome headshot on the back!

The first person to email me with their favorite photograph from my October Border's display will get a brand new autographed copy of Welcome to Pottersville.

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CONFESSION

I've been keeping a secret from you guys. I walk under ladders, am not affected by black cats and don't toss salt over my shoulder when I spill it. When it comes to photography, I become superstitious. Black just so happens to be a staple in my wardrobe. Black's downfall is that, it absorbs light. So, you'll never see me wear black on a photo shoot. As a natural light photographer I feel absorbing any light is criminal! What will you see me wear? A white shirt and jeans. White is a great reflector! I felt obligated to share this for the people who have booked me 3 or more times this year and are probably thinking I only own one white tee shirt!

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There's only one thing better than a shoot in my client's home...

2006-08-23T11:05:00.000-04:00

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

... it's a shoot in my client's summer home!

Traveling to this family's summer home in East Hampton was a breeze, but the photos from our shoot would have been worth the worst traffic that Route 27 could muster.

It was an early Saturday morning, and just us girls, Baby Girl, Mom, Grandma and Me. Shortly after I arrived I learned that our sweet little subject had a very early start to her day and had fallen back to sleep. I can't tell you how many babies get so excited for their big day that they decide to wake up at 4:30 in the morning! It was a wonderful opportunity to get to know Mom and Grandma a little better over a delicious cup of coffee.

Later, Mom led a tour of the home and our last room was Baby's. She woke up happy and was not concerned about having me in her room. Baby's sweet laid back and relaxed attitude coupled with her incredible good looks yielded some of my favorite photographs from this summer. Doesn't she look like a Gerber Baby? (Gerber, if you're reading this contact me and I'll pass your information along to her Mom. You don't want to let this one go!)

Here's what this Mom had to say after receiving her photographs:

"The photos came today!! They are UNBELIEVABLE!!!! Thank you so, so, so, so much! I can’t express just how happy we are with these photos. They brought tears to my eyes. You did an amazing job. I have already emailed ALL my friends with new babies, telling them they HAVE TO hire you. ... The 11x16 came out so beautiful I am handling it like it’s a Faberge egg – I don’t even know how to frame it. I know my mother is going to DIE when she gets her order – I am waiting for the day!
I look forward to many more photo sessions with you as [Baby] grows – you have spoiled us with your unique talent. I am so happy I found you!!"

I really liked this client before she wrote this email, but now I adore her! I love emails like this! I save them and re-read them when I'm doing a marathon proofing session.

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Since we're on the topic of shooting in my clients' homes, I've been asked a lot lately why I love working in a home environment. Photographing people in their environment is the foundation of a successful shoot. No matter what your age, having your photograph taken is not always easy. Like a conversation, it is an exchange. Sometimes, the subject can feel vulnerable. As a subject, you can't see what the photographer sees. You're on the spot. Sheesh, even the name subject treats you like an outside party to the process. Any wrong move, and forever more it is captured on digital sensor (unless your photographer shoots film).

Working in my clients homes levels the playing field. My subjects are on their own turf. They've got an advantage. It gives them back some control. Allows them to be knowledgeable and most importantly comfortable. As a matter of fact, the last two clients that I talked out of doing beach shots had the most amazing homes and I loved the photographs from their sessions.

Children do not have the same exact concerns as adults (Did she capture my good side? I hope I didn't crinkle my eyes up too much...). However, they do have an awareness that someone is asking something great from them (sit still) and in return their only reward is the process. (well, their parents get photographs, but when have you heard of a 2 year old that really cares about finally get a decent picture of himself). It doesn't matter if I'm shooting children or adults. My approach is the same. I try to make the process of having your photograph both fun and relaxed. I always have an awareness that I am asking something great of my subjects.

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IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING BOOKING AN APPOINTMENT

Thank you dear clients for all your wonderful referrals! This has been a very busy summer here and there are a limited number of appointments available in 2006. There are even less weekend appointments available. The next available weekend date is in October.

The best time to book your maternity session is when you're approximately 25 weeks pregnant. The ideal time to conduct a maternity session is around your 33rd week. Why 33? For starters, at 33 weeks you have a belly TO photograph! At 33 weeks you're still able to move around with relative ease and you're not completely exhausted, yet.

The best time to book your newborn session is also around 33 weeks. When booking a newborn session, a retainer is accepted to reserve an appointment. Babies are unpredictable (even with scheduled c-sections) so, we wait and see. Newborn sessions are conducted during the week and I highly recommend doing them when the baby is 5 days old (or less).

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ANDREW?

Hi! If you're the Andrew that left me the nicest message about photographing your lovely family I can't call you. For some reason your message got cut off before you left your phone number. I would love to photograph your family and would love to call you back!

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Her Mamma is a Celebrity

2006-07-31T20:47:00.000-04:00

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

Around here this sleepy little girl's Mamma is certainly a celebrity. You may have seen her on TV when she was delivering my babies! It was a great privilege to have the opportunity to photograph this gorgeous little girl. Baby T's Mommy, I know you've been reading and waiting for her pictures to be posted on the blog. I'm sorry it's taken so long!

Precious Baby T sure had me fooled! I thought I would be photographing a typical sleepy newborn. Baby T is far from typical and it's obvious the moment you meet her. At five days old she is engaging. For the first hour and a half she didn't show any signs of being sleepy. Finally, after about two hours and one (or two) feedings she finally started to doze!

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NO MORE WORRIES ABOUT PAINTING THE NURSERY

It was about 15 days after learning I was pregnant with my son to start thinking about nursery decor. Furniture collections, fabric swatches and paint samples swirled around my head like the sweet aroma of cookies baking in the oven. Hey, speaking of sweet aromas, fresh paint is not one of them. If you're concerned about indoor air polution, check out Anna Sova'sHealthy Paint. It's free of the volatile organic compounds that make traditional wall paint so unhealthy and stinky too. Better yet, her colors are to dye (err.. die) for. Although picking a favorite color is tough, I'd say mine is Tibetan Tsi-Tog.

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AMERICAN PHOTO AGREES WITH ME!

I was a little reluctant to post about how much I loved the Panasonic DMC-FZ7. What happened if one of my clients purchased it and hated it? What if I had the only good version? What if there was a better buy out there? What if I was wrong? Thank you American Photo. Now, I will no longer lose sleep over the camera recommendation. (Okay, I never really lost sleep over it, but I came close two times.) In the July/August edition of American Photo Magazine, the FZ7 was selected as the editor's choice and a Best Buy. I guess that means you'll be taking my recommendations more seriously now. That's great because I know a great children's photographer if you're looking for one...

Nauti-Boys

2006-07-09T07:51:00.000-04:00

**DISCLAIMER: The phonetics of this blog title are misleading**

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

The decision to title this blog entry, "Nauti-Boys" was difficult. I'm hoping that the disclaimer on this post will get me closer to redemption. These boys are the farthest thing from naughty, but they are very nauti! Their affinity for the beach was obvious. The boys' comfort and ease with the beach and sand (in addition to their absolute cuteness and good looks) created beautiful and fun photographs.

Maybe I see the nautical connection as a result of their matching intarsia whale sweaters. More so I think it's their Mom's strong connection to the beautiful beaches of Amagansett. Is it possible that a love for the ocean can be hereditary?

(On the day of our shoot there was a carnival a short walk away from the beach. After our sandy shoot we strolled over to the carnival. The last two photographs were taken there.)

Yoga Inspriration

2006-06-10T19:06:00.000-04:00

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

Short of over-indulging at Paci in Southport, it takes a lot to motivate me to exercise. Although I do enjoy it (especially spinning), finding the time can be a challenge. Well, shortly after taking a peek at this client's wedding album I was inspired to don my yoga wear and balance my energy.

After their fun and wet (well, wet for me) family session on the beach we headed back to their house. I casually snapped some more images and basked in the glory of knowing I had a CF card filled with beautiful images. I would love to say that the beautiful images were a result of my hard work and raw talent, but really, the images were a result of this family's amazing connection with each other. They're happy, positive and the type of people you want to be around.

Sitting on their couch I saw their wedding album and flipped through the pages. The same beauty and energy I saw in the photographs we created on the beach were in their wedding album. The photographs taken before the wedding were not of an anxious bride. The bride was gorgeous, radiant and at peace (and wearing, by the way, an exquisite gown with the most elegant detailing at the hem). No nerves, no worries, just happiness, bliss. To which I asked, "Weren't you nervous?" My client told me all about her morning that day which included listening to a great CD, making a trip to the beach and practicing yoga. That sealed my fate. Shortly after I arrived home that afternoon I was dusting off my mat and searching for my favorite pair of yoga pants.

This session was a favorite of mine because the photographs we created were the byproduct of this family's beautiful energy. They were so positive, loving and plain ol' fun people to hang out with on a Saturday morning. Any one of the images from this session I would love to put on this blog, or on my website. I had to pick a few, so here are four from that day.

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

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FREE CHILDREN'S FILM FESTIVAL

Did you know the Crow Marquis Theaters in Wilton, Trumbull, Norwalk, Hartford and Stamford will be hosting a free film festival for children and their caregivers? You can see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Racing Stripes, Because of Winn Dixie, Cheaper by the Dozen 2, Madagascar, Dreamer, Nanny McPhee and Curious George. The festival starts on June 27th and is held on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10 am. Visit the Crown Theaters Website for more details.

Happy Mother's Day

2006-05-14T21:40:00.000-04:00

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

Happy Mother's Day!

To start my Mother's Day celebration this year I photographed my children for a change. Here's Jack (almost 5) and Sophia (a fresh 3 - err.. although that is a facet of her personality "fresh" is supposed to mean she just turned three).

The picture of Jack encapsulates his sweet and somewhat reserved personality. The way his hand is perched so close to his face is one of his signature moves. I'm so happy that I was able to capture this moment.

I love this photo of Sophia because it illustrates a side of her I don't see much when I'm behind the camera. In this photo, she is still, contemplative and really looking at me. A typical photo session with Sophia involves a hip thrust (not mine!) and an impish grin.

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© 2006 J.Crew

A question I get asked frequently is, "What should my child wear?" That's when I give my typical answer, "...avoid distracting patterns and logos, try to limit clothing changes for young children and let me in your closets I'd love to pick something out." Well, next time I get asked that question I may just answer with anything from crewcuts.

Saturday was my first opportunity to visit the new crewcuts line at the J.Crew store in downtown Westport. The pint sized attire is for 2-8 year olds and the colors, patterns and logos will photograph beautifully. The best part is that the clothes are at a price point where you won't mind if your child actually plays and gets dirty in this stuff. (There's a good chance someone's going to get dirty on one of my photo sessions.)

You might not hear other photographers telling you this when helping you select your wardrobe for your shoot. But, I'll say it, "Bring on the madras!"

The Prince

2006-04-28T16:09:00.000-04:00

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

When this picture was taken the parents of this beautiful boy and I were laughing and having a good time. It was hard to imagine that just five days prior they were welcoming him into the world. We were laughing because Dad suggested what we were doing was ripped from book of "What Not To Do With Your Newborn". What you can't see is that Baby Boy was at end of the bed on the very edge. Thankfully, both Mom and Dad were close by keeping a careful watch over him.

(This is the picture I described in my previous blog entry.)

Black and white picture taken with the FZ7

2006-04-13T21:12:00.000-04:00

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

Here it is! A picture taken with the FZ7. This one is of my dear son who has grown tired of having his picture taken. It was taken in color and converted to black and white in photoshop.

The next blog entry will have the picture that I talked about in my previous blog entry. It's one of my favorite newborn photos from last month.

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Back to business

2006-04-02T18:23:00.000-04:00

Untitled
Originally uploaded by hadleyspagna.

It's great to be back to business after being closed for the past week!

Okay, this is not a picture taken with the Lumix. But, I had to share this one first. I love this photograph because not only is this a beautiful subject, but I love the lighting in this photograph too. The light seems to wrap around her like a soft halo. An angel.

There must have been something in the water in May of 2005 because you guys have been keeping me very busy with newborns lately! Congratulations on the births of your new babies! I'll be posting a favorite photograph of one of my newborns soon. But, first I'll be posting that image taken with the Lumix. I promise!

Referrals Just Got Better! (and a recent session too)

2006-03-15T20:56:00.000-05:00

Today referring a friend to Hadley Spagna Photography just got bigger and better! What's bigger? The bonus! What's better? There's a bonus for the referrer and the referree! ) Email me for more details. I can't wait to tell you all about it!!

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The picture above is from a recent session that I really enjoyed. (Okay, I enjoy all of them!) I picked this picture out to share with you because it's one of those pictures that is a little deceiving. Yes, the sweet little girl in the picture is as content as she seems. But, did you know that I was balancing on the rim of the bathtub while taking this picture and praying that I didn't fall in the tub? (If you did, please be sure to tell me!) Another reason why I had to share this picture is because it's one of my favorites from the session. This little girl really touched my heart. Just look at those eyes! Don't they just melt you?

Looking for a new camera?

2006-03-03T14:31:00.000-05:00

© 2006 Panasonic

If you're in the market for a new camera, this one is worth your consideration. Panasonic just annouced the release of the DMC-FZ7. I recommend this camera to anyone who is looking for a lightweight, high quality, compact camera. Priced under $400 this camera is an over-acheiver. It's packed with features including image stabilizer technology, a 12x optical zoom LEICA (yes, I said LEICA!) lens, an easy mode, advanced mode, pop up flash, a 2.5" LCD display in the back... You stopped reading when I wrote Leica, didn't you? I know, when I heard about this camera I almost fell off of my chair too!

Check back soon, I'll be posting pictures taken with the FZ7 soon!

Simon at dpreview wrote a great review of the FZ7. Although he didn't give it the "highly reccommended" seal of approval, I do. Simon wasn't thrilled with the amount of digital noise this camera produces. I'm not disputing the fact that there is digital noise at iso 100 and higher. When you consider the features of the camera and the price point it's a phenomenal deal. The noise won't be an issue unless you're planning on making enlargements or shooting in low light with no flash. (Hey, isn't that what you hire a professional for?)

Happy shopping! Just a disclaimer, I do not own Panasonic stock. But, if I have convinced you to buy a FZ7 be sure to send me some of your pictures, I can't wait to see them!

Has it really been a month?

2006-02-22T01:21:00.000-05:00

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

I was planning on business slowing down after the Holidays. But, if anything I'm busier than ever! Thank you for your patience during the great blog drought of 2006.

The photo above is from one of the commercial projects I worked on this month. This photo was taken for an event designer that really pays attention to details. I was amazed at how she thought of everything, right down to padding the "candy shop" (that her crew made) so guests would have a comfortable place to rest their elbows.

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WHAT TO DO WITH ALL THOSE PHOTOS

My clients usually buy all the photos from their sessions. It's a great feeling to know that my clients love all their photos! After they've purchased them all, the next question I get is, "What do I do with all of them now?" Well, as some of my clients already know this year I'm offering traditional photo albums and coffee table style albums for smaller prints. But, how to you hang the larger ones?

I was browsing through Potterybarn's website and found a great page on how to turn an empty wall into a photo gallery. It's got four different layout ideas and printable templates to help you hang your photos on your wall.

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CLOSING MARCH 23-30

Hadley Spagna Photography will be closed from March 23-30th. All phone calls and emails received during that period will be received after March 31st.

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NEW SITE LAUNCED

Did you see my new website yet? I've been working on getting that launched all month. Hmm.. maybe that's why this blog post is so late! There are more changes to come and lots more photos that will be added. Check back soon.

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REFERRALS

Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the amazing referrals! I'm so touched by how many of my new clients are booking an appointment because of referrals from friends and family. I appreciate your kind words and all your support!

A SNIP in a Snap!

2006-01-29T11:42:00.000-05:00

© 2006 Snip

A SNIP IN A SNAP

Before we started going to Snip when Jack heard the news that it was haircut day he would go though the five stages of grief.

1. Denial

"No! I'm NOT going to get my hair cut"

2. Anger

(insert bone shaking shrieks here)
Jack collapses, kicks his feet, and runs out of the room screaming he doesn't like to get his hair cut.

3. Bargaining

"How about we go to the ice cream store today and do a hair cut next week?"

4. Depression

Nothing to type because Jack has stopped talking to me at this stage and is no longer in the room.

5. Acceptance

Okay. Well, Jack went through four stages of grief. I don't think he accepted his hair cuts even after they were over!

Jack grieves no more! Thanks to Mitch and Jordan at Snip.

Now when I tell Jack it's time to get a hair cut he gleefully asks if we're going to the place with the TV and the car. Getting him in the car no longer involves any crying or collapsing. Once we get there Jack eagerly hops into the Mercedes convertible while Sophia runs over to the four foot long aquarium. During the haircut Sophia goes from the aquarium to the basketball game to the kid sized table covered in coloring books and crayons. Jordan and Mitch's laid back and relaxed personalities make the atmosphere and my experience the same. Haircut, relaxing? Yes, I said it!

For more information on Snip contact Mitch or Jordan at 203-255-6660 or visit their website at: www.snipcut.com

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TWO MORE DAYS AT BORDERS

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

If you haven't made it down there yet, you've got two more days to see my display in Borders. For everyone who can't make it I included the photo above so you can get a sneak peek.

Busted! That was us on the Baby Story

2006-01-25T20:49:00.000-05:00

After the recent airing of our episode of The Baby Story I got lots of emails asking if that was us. I guess I can't sneak that one by.

Sophia Grace's birth story was featured on TLC's A Baby Story. The episode is almost three years old now and occasionally will come back on the air.

One of the questions I get asked most frequently is, "How was the experience doing the show?" The experience of filming the Baby Story was really fun and even a little challenging. One of the best parts was seeing how the show worked behind the scenes. It definitely would not have been a great experience with out the incredible producer who worked on our show. Not only can she put a great show together (she's an Emmy winner!) but she is so warm and friendly. Because of her great personality I felt totally at ease and she helped make filming the show a great experience. The challenging part was cooking a spaghetti and meatball dinner for 12 people when I was 8 months pregnant. You won't see 12 people on that segment of the show. That's because I fed the crew too!

Pee Pee Tee Pee

2006-01-22T21:57:00.000-05:00

© 2006 www.uncommongoods.com

Nope, that's not just a catchy title. It really exists. A pee pee tee pee. Where was that 5 years ago? That would have come in handy on a couple of occasions! This looks like a perfect "shower" gift.

A more than decent meal for kids (and parents too)!

2006-01-08T13:35:00.000-05:00

© 2006 Southport Brewing Company

When I eat out with my children usually someone loses. My kids prefer restaurants equipped with a playland. I prefer restaurants equipped with a wine list. Almost always our dining out experience involves an unhappy party. Neil and I find that eating at restaurants (if you will) that have indoor slides and ball pits leave something to be desired. Jack and Sophia find that eating at restaurants with dim lighting and too many menus are a fate worse than a 17 hour marathon time out. There is ONE place where we can eat and everyone wins: Southport Brewing Company

Their secret is the Kids Menu. The kids menu comes with a fruit cup, vegetables, fries or mashed potatoes, a juice box, dessert AND a little toy too. Yes, there are chicken fingers, macaroni & cheese, pizza and grilled cheese sandwiches on the kids menu. But, if you can get your kids to eat salmon that too is on the kids menu (for under $8.00 I might add). The kids menu also has grilled boneless chicken breast and fish sticks (in total 9 different things to choose from). Oh, and if you're eating with an infant you can get a box of Cheerios for the wee one. Not bad eh? I'm convinced the person who came up with the Kids Menu at SBC has lived with children at some point in time (perhaps they have one or two of their own?). I truly appreciate this kids menu, it can't be beat.

(okay, you're not going to find a ball pit there, but there is some really neat brewery stuff for the kids to admire)

Bon Appetit!

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Why not devote this entire post to food? The Walter's Post was so successful (I loved reading your emails!) that I thought I would do a Walter's Dog Epilogue.

Shortly after the Walter's post was written I had to be in the city for a shoot so I stopped by Walter's on the way home.

Yum Walter's Mustard!
© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

Here's a picture of the line experience: (YES there was a line at the end of December in 40 degree weather at 3:30 PM on a weekday - a 20 minute line!)
© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

I forgot to mention in the other post that if you like to put chili, cheese, french fries, sauerkraut, or any other hot dog garnish on your dog, you're better be prepared: You can get mustard, ketchup or both at Walter's. That's it.
© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

Thank you to the kind blog reader who reminded me that I never discussed the location of Walter's in my previous blog post. Walter's is located at 937 Palmer Avenue in Mamaroneck, NY. :)

Great things are in store for 2006 - Happy New Year!

2006-01-05T20:54:00.000-05:00

© 2006 Hadley Spagna Photography

Happy New Year!

Is it me or did the Holidays FLY by this year? When I started to think about this blog entry (dedicated to the New Year and the Holiday season that flew by) I knew exactly which picture to post.

When a photographer goes on location to a new client they never know what they're going to get. That's another one of the reasons why I love my job (keeps me on my toes). When I got a call from this great couple I mentally prepared for lack of light. It's not uncommon to have a Manhattan apartment with blah lighting. When I showed up for this session I was prepared for blah. I had studio lighting equipment, stands, reflectors, the whole she-bang. Their amazing apartment had so much natural light that I didn't know what to do with it all! A pleasant surprise! If only it was summertime I would have conducted the session on their enormous terrace (and I would have surely scored some peppers and parsley from their garden) ((yes guys that was directed at you and was designed to be a slightly more than subtle hint))

This couple's picture was selected for this post because they're starting their New Year with a New Baby Boy. I photographed him at 15 days old. He's very mature for 15 days and I swear he has the eyesight and attention span of a 5 week old! He's even on a schedule! Just wait until you see him!

Hey, great things are in store for you too in 2006

For starters, ordering photographs online is even easier than it was in 2005. Not only is my online ordering system even easier to use, but it's packed with so many great features! Now you can send your friends and family email-postcards with one of the photographs from your session. There's also a private message board for friends and family that view your gallery to communicate with each other. Or if you're having trouble deciding which pictures to order you can add them to your "favorites" and save your selections to order them at another time. I can't wait for you guys to see the improved gallery. The new gallery knocks the socks off of the old gallery.

Having trouble deciding which pictures to select from your gallery?

Get them all! Last year so many of my clients had trouble selecting which photographs to order. So, this year, I've added some packages where you can get one of everything! Also new this year is a special mini-session created specifically for my repeat clients that want multiple sessions per year.

You can't use framing and frugal in the same sentence.

Another exciting change for 2006 is a partnership I've formed with a local framer. Framing can be expensive. Especially when you're framing 15 photographs at the same time. So, I've negotiated a special deal exclusively for my clients to help reduce framing costs.

NPR - Walter's Dogs - Not Photography Related

2005-12-29T22:31:00.001-05:00

© 2005 www.waltershotdogs.com

My husband and I get along so well because we have lots of things in common. We have similar views on many hot topics and even hot dogs. If you've ever had a Walter's Hot Dog you'll understand the importance of the latter. Oh sure, there are tons of hot dog stands out there. But, I've never had a dog like a Walter's Dog. I could go for one right now. One? At this hour of the night? You're right, that's crazy! Make it four.

It's not just me craving this dog at all hours of the night. When you stand in line to get your fare (yes, since many others feel the same way about Walter's Dogs there inevitably is a line) you'll see postcards from all over the world. It must really stink to be floating along Semuc Champey and crave a Walter's Dog. What else can you do other than send a postcard? (well, yes, one could write a blog post as well...)

It takes me about 40 minutes to get there from Fairfield and it's worth every minute!

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APPEARING IN BORDERS - JANUARY 2006

From January 1-31 my work will be on display in the downtown Fairfield location of Borders. Be sure to stop by and take a look!

Ho Ho Ho!

2005-12-26T16:02:00.000-05:00

Yes, Jack really did open his presents that quickly.

I hope everyone had and is having a fantastic Holiday!

If the Holidays aren't busy enough...

2005-12-21T23:15:00.000-05:00

...then try web sudoku.

Thanks to this game I have not wrapped presents. There's still shopping to be done, cookies to be baked, children to be fed. Okay, I fed the kids! But watch out, Sudoku is addictive.

If you haven't read about it in your local newspaper, or seen it on CBS or even FOX's tv series House then you might want to click here to learn more about Sudoku.

Hey, even if you know a little about Sudoku you might want to click on that link anyway. It takes you to Wikipedia where there's tons of information about the history, mathematics and the popularity of Sudoku.

I love that every puzzle has a logical solution so there's no guessing. And I love that it involves numbers! Have fun playing!

What are we going to do with out Mr. Scribbles for the next three weeks??

2005-12-15T20:48:00.000-05:00

image © 2005 Creative Castle

By the time my first born (and only) son was 20 months old I had two children. There were lots of diapers, bottles and sleepless nights in those early weeks. When the kids got older there were also lots of baby-and-me classes... yoga, art, swimming, music and gymnastics to name a few. I came to realize they were all a different variation of the same theme.

Not too long ago I was driving down the Post Road. I saw a bright yellow sign that read, Creative Castle. I drove by that canary colored sign for weeks before I finally decided to drop in. A primary colored staircase led me up to the second floor where I was greeted by the founder Holly. Everywhere I looked I could see framed works of art from not-yet-famous little artists. After a short and pleasant conversation with Holly, I signed Sophia up for a semester at the Creative Castle.

image © 2005 Hadley Spagna Photography

I expected the standard mommy-and-me fare. A couple of choreographed songs, some sort of motor skill building activity and that would be the end of class. After the first class at the Creative Castle I was sorry I didn't sign Jack up too. The classes there are actually different. It's obvious that heart, soul and lots of thought, time and energy has been invested in the program. Every detail from the snacks to the moldings around the doors has been scrutinized. In one class Sophia has the opportunity to paint, glue, cut, mold, sing, dance, play, color or whatever (within reason) her heart desires. All without being rushed, with no pressure and no "right" way to do things.

I'm sure Holly, Martin and Amy all need a break. It's obvious they work hard. I understand. But, still, what am I going to do for the next three weeks? EVERY DAY (no kidding) Sophia talks about the Castle. She wants to go there and see Ms. Amy and Mr. Scribbles. She's talked so much about it that Jack is now asks to go to the Creative Castle (and he's never been inside the front door!)

To tide us over for the next three weeks I suppose I'll have to conduct the Artistic Abode.
--

PS Don't worry about Jack. He's signed up for the winter semester too.

The cobbler's children have no shoes

2005-12-13T21:21:00.000-05:00

Lots of my Holiday shopping has been online. As a result my house is filled with boxes. Before we clear them out of the house I give the kids crayons and let them decorate their boxes. We talk about what they are making (sometimes it's a house or a rocket ship and sometimes things get really wild and we make a pizza restaurant or a grocery store). It's really fun to watch the kids decorate their boxes. They can do it for what seems like hours!

Recently, Jack and Sophia were decorating a box. It was half rocket ship and half princess castle. We laughed about all the princesses in space wondering what happened to their castle. Sophia jumped in the box and I raced for my camera. That's when I took this picture.

Thank goodness I did. It's been ages since I took pictures of my own kids. You know what they say about the cobbler!

Yes, I photograph adults too

2005-12-08T06:22:00.000-05:00

A question I've been asked a lot recently is if I photograph adults. Yes, I do photograph adults. I do lots of maternity portraits and sometimes I even photograph a couple like the two you see here.

These two were so much fun to work with. We had lots of beautiful light on our session which made it even more fun for me!

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Do you still have holiday shopping to do? How about checking out what the Oppenheims view as the seasons best toys? Joanne and Stephianie Oppenheim have been reviewing toys since 1989. Toys are played with, opened, assembled and tested with all different kinds of people and child experts. There is no entry fee to submit a toy for review and they don't accept ads from manufacturers. You can't buy a good rating from these guys! That's why when I see the Oppenheim's seal of approval I know it's a toy worth purchasing. Best of all they review toys all year long! The Oppenheims even have an ad free newsletter.

My favorite Oppenheim award winning toy is the Plasma-car. My mother discovered this car months ago and even managed to score Sophia a rare PINK one!

I've got the coolest job

2005-12-05T19:57:00.000-05:00

I love my job. Everyday I wake up I either have a new concept for a photograph or am thinking about creative ways to work on photographs in post-production. It's borderline obsessive. Well, maybe not exactly borderline. Probably more like slightly over the line. Sometimes it's obtrusive because I should be thinking about what to make for dinner, or that I have library books to return.

Recently, a client told me that this picture of his son will "define his childhood" when he's older.

That is the kind of moment I live for. It makes the $27.00 late fees that I've incurred totally worth it.

I love this picture

2005-12-01T16:23:00.000-05:00

One of my all time favorites.

Not just for kids: Foam Paint

2005-11-29T21:44:00.000-05:00

Here it is, the foam paint recipe:

What you'll need

Ziploc bag (or should I be saying gripper seal bags?)
Crayola WASHABLE paints (okay, I have brand loyalty issues)
Non-gel type shaving cream (... Colgate)
*Elmer's white glue *optional

What to do:

Open ziploc bag and fold the top over to make it easier to put the shaving cream in.

Squirt shaving cream inside of the bag until it's 1/2 full or so.

Add WASHABLE (I cannot emphasize WASHABLE enough this gets messy) paint. To get the colors you see in the pictures of this post use about 1.5 teaspoons. If you're feeling brave and have a lot of sponges on hand use more paint to get a richer color.

Add Elmer's glue to the bag if you'd like to keep this project and have the foam stay in tact after it dries . Use the same amount of glue as you do paint.

Eliminate any extra air from the bag by GENTLY squeezing the bag around the shaving cream blob. (In addition to making it easier to mix the paint it also will help reduce the risk of the bag popping and spraying shaving cream all over the house.)

Mix the paint by gently squeezing, scrunching, crunching and smooshing the sealed bag.

Cut off one of the bottom corners of the bag so you can now squeeze your foamy mess (er paint) out of the bag. The bigger the cut the more foam will come out.

What to do with your foam:

If you don't mix in the glue you can put the kids in their bathing suits, give them their foam paint and put them in the bathtub. They'll love having the opportunity to wear their swim suits and will have a blast with the foam (yes, literally).

Make a foamy pizza! Mix up a batch of red foam paint with glue and white foam paint with glue. Smush the all of the red foam paint evenly over a yellow party plate. Use the bag to squirt the white foam paint on top of the red (it's the cheese). Cut out pieces of pepperoni from red construction paper, olives from black construction paper and peppers from green construction paper. Now decorate your pizza!

Make a creative pizza. Spread your favorite color of foam paint on a plate or piece of paper. Decorate with beads, glitter, pom-poms, cut up pieces of fabric or magazines, Cheerios (there I go with the brand loyalty again) or anything your heart desires.

Use 2 inch trim brushes to paint with your foam.

Use your fingers to paint with it too!

Make a bag for yourself and practice your cake decorating skills. See, foam paint isn't just for kids! Don't forget to send me pictures of your leaves (I never can get those to look right) and your roses!

As Lauren would say, watch your Monet while the kids are playing with this. Although it's relatively harmless it's an activity that needs monitoring.

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New Year New Look

Keep checking out my photography site Hadley Spagna Photograhy to see my 2006 makeover!

On display in Grand Central

2005-11-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

Hadley's work is now on display in Grand Central Station at the Paradis Found Booth. The show started November 21st and runs through December 24th. Booth hours are Monday through Friday 10am to 8pm and Saturdays and Sundays 12pm to 6 pm.

Stop by the booth and meet the amazingly talented and friendly designer of this high quality, unique children's clothing Dana Paradis. Using chenille bedspreads, camp blankets and vintage fabrics and trims (you've got to see the buttons she finds!) Dana designs and personally sews each one of her creations. Her booth is a feast for the eyes!

To find the Paradis Found booth go to Vanderbilt Hall in Grand Central Station. It's in the center isle on the east side of the hall.

For more information on Paradis Found visit Hats4Kids.com

Sleeping Baby (not quite)

2005-11-27T09:28:00.000-05:00

This is a picture of one of the most alert and mature 6 week olds I have ever had the pleasure of photographing. Her mother called me with the hopes of getting some close ups of her daughter's hands, feet, et al. for an announcement. No problem. I should have said that after I met this little girl. On the day of our session I met a wise, smart, alert, talkative six week old that was more like a 10-12 week old baby. To get the shots Mom wanted we really needed a sleeping baby. Or at the minimum a dull awake baby. This little person refused to rest even with a very full tummy. I chose to share this shot with you today because when I look at this picture I see a sleeping baby. But, remembering the moment I know it was a very awake baby that just so happened to stretch and close her eyes (for a second or two).

Tis the season!

2005-11-25T17:08:00.000-05:00

How was your Thanksgiving? Mine was fantastic! Hosting 14 people is easy when they're all such generous helpers. We had pecan pie, pumpkin pie, apple pie, brownies, cupcakes, a little champagne and some turkey too. I can't wait for next year.

Now that Thanksgiving is over, the season has begun. No, not the Holiday season (well, okay, yeah, I guess that season has begun as well). I'm talking about painting season. My two children (20 months apart in age) literally bounce off the walls when it gets dark and cold and they get cooped up in the house. My Rx? Painting! The kids love it, they'll paint for at least a half hour and I end up with some amazing artwork for my walls. It's a win-win. The best part is in case there isn't enough to do that day there's a gigantic mess to clean up and usually a bath afterwards.

Speaking of paint. Check back next week when I post my recipe for foam paint. There's no denying it's messy, but it's fun! The best part is that there are a bazillion things you can do with foam paint!

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PS That's my son Jack having at it!

Happy Thanksgiving

2005-11-24T06:46:00.000-05:00

Rather than a photo, here's a painting today. This is titled, "The First Thanksgiving" and was painted by Jean Louis Gerome Ferris (1863-1930).

Thank you to Mrs. Sarah Josepha Hale for lobbying to make today a national holiday. Thank you also to President Lincoln for declaring Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863.

I better start cooking, I've got 14 people coming over later! Gobble Gobble!

Getting ready for Turkey Day!

2005-11-23T11:32:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving just so happens to occur during my busy season. There are Holiday cards to be designed, ordered and printed, photos to be sent to the lab and packaged, boxes to ship, clients to call and oh yes I've got to think about making some stuffing too huh?

Sophia wanted to color. I needed to make a business call. I told Sophia I would color with her after I made the call. While I was on the phone she found some diaper rash cream. I'm still trying to figure out where she found it because I'm worried about what else is there. I'm hoping that she discovered the secret location where all stray socks go to leave their partners. Who knows? Maybe socks and diaper cream like to hang out together? I've heard of crazier things.

The picture you see here is what happens when a busy photographer mom gets distracted on a business call. Like any good photographer mom my first instinct was to grab my camera and take a picture. When I look at Sophia's face in this picture I see, "this is what happens when you talk on the phone when you should be coloring with me". Lucky for me (and Sophia) it came off as quickly as it went on. Even better, she hasn't had a diaper rash on her face all day!

trust

2005-11-20T11:19:00.000-05:00

trust
Originally uploaded by hadleyspagna.

I titled this image trust because it was taken as I was building a rapport with this sweet little girl. She had come a long way to have her photo taken by me so she knew this was a big day. During the car ride she had taken a nap only to wake up in a new and strange place. I had a feeling it might take her a little while to become acclimated to her new surroundings. What I didn't realize is that this little girl was going to make me work very hard to earn her trust. This photo was taken at the turning point in our session. Shortly after I snapped this photograph she gave me her trust.

Meet Your Photographer

2005-11-19T15:15:00.000-05:00

IMG_1531
Originally uploaded by hadleyspagna.

A big thank you everyone who has written me with your compliments and encouraging words! I love getting your emails. Keep them coming!

Here are some of the questions I am asked most frequently:

What kind of equipment do you use?

I have lots of equipment, but more often than not I shoot with Canon digital cameras . I'm committed to bringing the latest technology to my clients. So, I'm constantly buying new cameras. The latest member of my camera family is the 5D.

Which lens is your favorite?

The 50mm 1.4! That lens gets used 80% of the time on my shoots. Sometimes I'll use it for the entire shoot. When I'm not using the 50mm, I may be using my 24-70mm or the 17-40mm. I even use a fisheye lens and a lensbaby to keep things fresh and fun.

How do you get the eyes of your subjects to sparkle like that?

I look for sparkly light and then photograph my subjects in that light.

Do you have a question you want to ask? Send me an email and you might get your question answered on this blog.

Miles and Milestones

2005-11-18T12:43:00.000-05:00

As a member of The International Guild of Children's Photographers, Hadley is dedicated to the promotion of honesty, artistry, and dignity in children's portraiture and proudly participates in Project Miles and Milestones.

What is Miles and Milestones?

Miles and Milestones provides sessions and print packages to families that are separated from their children due to respectful situations beyond their control. So many parents, for reasons beyond their control, are missing out on their children's births, first steps, and other once-in-a-lifetime milestones. Seemingly insignificant everyday moments we so often take for granted are painfully out of reach for mothers and fathers.

If you know someone who might be eligible or think you may be, contact Hadley right away. These sessions are available on a limited basis.

Here's The Scoop On Goop!

2005-11-17T11:46:00.000-05:00

This is such a cool thing to do. I made it for the kids and found out that I liked it as much as they did. The properties of Goop are incredible! The possibilities for the imagination are endless. Here's the scoop and have fun!

INGREDIENTS:

1 rounded teaspoon 20 Mule Team Borax
8 oz. white school glue (Elmer's glue, for example)
1 1/4 cups water
15 drops of food coloring (optional - can be messy)

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a glass bowl, stir together 1 cup of water, the white glue, and the food coloring.
Dissolve all the borax powder in the remaining 1/4 cup water.
Add borax mixture to glue mix and stir until a slimy lump forms. Stir vigorously for another 30 seconds.
Remove the lump of slime and kneed it with your hands to dry it and complete the reaction.
In 2 minutes or so, you should be holding a ball of wonderful slime that pulls clean from your hands.

THINGS TO DO WITH GOOP:

Push into small kid-size cups. This will make funny noises and the giggles will last forever.
Try sticking a straw into part of the Flubber and blowing a bubble.
Let your hand ooze into the Flubber and watch it act like a liquid.
Then remove your hand and punch the Flubber. It will act like a solid.

Wicked Cool.

Word To The Wise: Goop is child safe but personally, I wouldn't give it to very young children. They might want to eat it or laminate it to something priceless like your Persian rug or favorite Monet.

Confident Cami

2005-11-16T10:33:00.000-05:00

This image is from one of Hadley's last beach sessions. It just so happens to be one of our favorite images too. I love the attitude and confidence that this little friend is exuding in the image Hadley captured.

And that smile!

Wry and controlled. Sweetly suspicious? It lights up her face just as much as she let's it. Like Mona Lisa, one can't help but wondering just what she is thinking. There is so much character in her posture and expression. A great shot, to be certain!

Welcome

2005-11-14T09:06:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the premier issue of my new photoblog!

This is a blog you'll want to bookmark! Here you'll find all kinds of interesting information, not just photography stuff. I've got a recipe for goop that I 'll be posting soon so you'll have something to do during the dark afternoons of winter. The atmosphere here is upbeat and fun (much like my sessions!).

Keep checking in often because I might even post special invitations for my clients. For example, book your 2006 session before December 31, 2005 and get my 2005 prices! Yeah, and I may just sneak it in like that so you have to read ALL the words.

You won't be hearing just from me though. My blog partner Lauren will be helping me out (and already has helped so much!).

Lauren and I encourage you to write in with your own ideas, stories, pictures, recipes, whatever! Send us the latest news, your favorite images... Your favorite restaurant! If you’re a fellow photographer, I want to hear from you too. Send your favorite images or tell us about your latest award. Maybe we’ll dedicate a post to you!

So stop by often and dish!

The face of Hadley Spagna Photography

The cutie you see here is my daughter Sophia. This picture is what inspired my Eye-Catching Photography campaign.