Something New Entertainment DJs and Lighting Design is pleased to announce that one of our beautiful wedding ceremonies and wedding receptions was chosen to be featured as one of Today's Bride Magazine's Real Weddings. It was announced on the Today's Bride to Today's Bride blog last week! You'll love all the home-spun rustic country charm infused in this event. Special thanks, of course, to 831 Photography for capturing this perfect day!
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The New Mr. and Mrs. After an Amazing Afternoon of Dancing!
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Many of you may recognize Mark and Heather from a Something New Entertainment postcard or magazine ad -- we provided DJ and MC services for their May 29, 2010 wedding at Happy Days Lodge.
Make sure to check it out for a detailed listing of their non-traditional music selection as well as a list of all their vendors and even more pics from 831 Photography of all our bride Heather's handiwork! From cowgirl boots to calico pomanders, chalkboards, and wildflowers, this wedding and wedding reception had so many beautiful details!
I had commented at the time in that blog (July 2010) that these DIY projects were so well-made that they looked like they belonged in Today's Bride Magazine. Hey -- I guess I was right!
Many congratulations to this crafty Something New Bride on getting the recognition she deserves!
Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir Photography
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Just in time for Valentine's Day, here's a Wedding Pro Interview with a Glamour and Boudoir Photographer! Gift idea!
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The Something New Team (specifically DJ Justin and DJ Glenna "GFF") first met Jamie Jansen of Jamie Jansen Photography and J T'aime Boudoir Photography (Je t'aime is French for "I love you") at Alisa and Doug's wedding this past June at the University of Akron's Quaker Station and were impressed by the "go-with-the-flow" attitude that keeps him ready to capture special shots at a moment's notice, as well as his ability to spot action unfolding in the now and his nontraditional, stealthy shooting style.
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With his imposing stature, and easy, infectious smile, he's easy to spot, easy to get along with, and easy to laugh with, hug assets for someone who will essentially be your shadow for 8+ hours on your wedding day.
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Like Something New Entertainment, Jamie Jansen Photography is also a Fox 8 HOT LIST Winner, so you can rest assured you've made an award-winning choice!
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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We love Jamie's glamour, boudoir, and pin up portraits because of his skill in a range of different styles -- from edgy fashion photography to playful pin-ups reminiscent of some of the great American pinup illustrators of the 1940's and 1950's such as Gil Elvgren and Alberto Vargas -- providing a variety of fun and sexy options even for those of us who would prefer a more modest wardrobe for our shoot.
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Without further ado, please enjoy the following portraits and musings by Jamie Jansen!
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Something New Entertainment's DJ Anna-Jeannine "AJ9" Herman: What first interested you in photography?
J T'aime Photography's Jamie Jansen: I was working on an art project for class and wanted it to be, start to finish, my original work. So, I got with a photographer in town to help me photograph a model. I made the prints (this was old school, darkroom days). Then I created my piece from the photos. That was my first experience. I enjoyed the creativity of it, and that stuck with me.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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The catalyst for the business really came later when I was in Los Angeles working as an actor. My agent saw that I had a photography background and asked me to shoot head shots for one of her other clients. One thing lead to another and I wound up shooting about half of her clients. The photography was actually going better than the acting at the time So, when my involvement with the agency fizzled out, I decided to take a break, come home and try out the photography thing.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: How long have you been working as a professional photographer?
JJ: It's been 10 years now. Wow. I've worked traveling, I worked for a portrait studio, I worked for a commercial photographer, started shooting weddings 8 years ago, and about 3 years ago started the boudoir side of my business. Time flies when you're having fun. Right?
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What types of photography do you specialize in?
JJ: As I listed, I'm sort of a jack-of-all-trades, I've worked in pretty much all the fields professionally, not just playing around. I think in my heart though, I've always liked fashion and glamour photography the best. That’s why boudoir is such a great fit for me.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What makes boudoir photography so special?
JJ: Here’s what I tell all potential clients. My belief is that every woman is absolutely beautiful. My job is to help bring that out for you. Many women have confidence issues about their body that are mostly unfounded. I have worked with many different women with many different body types and they have all looked stunning. I mean it. Stunning! I am positive in my heart that you are gorgeous as you are and we'll gladly help you to be comfortable, relaxed and rock the best shoot ever.
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Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir Photography
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: How would you describe your photographic style?
JJ: I call my style, guerrilla fashion:) It’s highly stylized and artistic, but I try to keep things moving. I try to give my clients something that no one else can offer, the NYC treatment. I've spent years developing the best skills and expertise to treat you like a New York City Model. Our style is built around the best work from all of the major magazines, lingerie catalogs and glamour photography, with our own twist. Plus I have the skills, the location and the gear to do it up right. So, come be Jennifer Aniston for a day. We’ll primp and pamper you, take some amazing photos and treat you like royalty.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What do you enjoy most about being a photographer?
JJ: It’s simple, the joy and confidence I can bring to other’s lives. That means more to me than anything, that I’ve had that powerful and positive affect on someone’s life. That’s the only reason I do this.
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Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir Photography
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DJ AJ9: What is the most important consideration ladies should make when hiring a boudoir photographer?
JJ: Uh, most? I think there’s several things to consider. Quality is my number one priority. I know I’m delivering a product that frankly isn’t possible unless you have the knowledge and know how to achieve the results. Plus a bunch of fancy toys. To a client, this may be a priority but not their utmost concern. I’ve also got to establish a comfort level and a safe environment. To most women, this is still an exciting, scary and somewhat intimidating prospect. I know from experience, that it tends to be very positive and empowering for every woman I've worked for. I just want to make sure that if you decide to do a shoot, that I do my absolute best to make you feel safe, comfortable and beautiful.
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Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What are some ways that ladies can prepare for their shoot to help ensure better photos?
JJ: I like a pre-consultation. This way we can chat, I can show you where we’ll be, and begin to develop our relationship. You’ve got to trust me to take care of you. Then, I also offer the services of a fashion consultant. She’s wonderful at helping you to choose clothes that are flattering and are good for your body type. Clothes that fit properly can make or break a shoot. A stylist is also great. She’s awesome at revolutionizing your look but also stays through the shoot to be your assistant. There’s some other basic cosmetic things you can do before hand that need not be listed here:) Just contact me for more information.
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Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir Photography
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DJ AJ9: What should ladies bring along with them to their shoot?
JJ: Definitely plenty of clothing options. The more we have to choose from, the better. Tore up jeans and a tank top is almost a standard for me. Several lingerie outfits. Jewelry and accessories are great. Your make up in case it’s needed. A favorite bottle of wine, your favorite music. Anything that’s gonna make you feel more comfortable and relaxed. A big plus is to bring things that mean something to your significant other. Favorite Shirt, Tie, whatever. It adds meaning to the photos.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What's your favorite "must capture" shot?
JJ: Actually, I can’t really answer that. I’m not meaning that in a sly way. Here’s what I mean. One of the first things I ask is, if it’s for her husband or boyfriend or whatever, what do you think is his “must capture” shot? Every woman knows.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What's the question I'm not asking you but you wish I would, or What's the question that clients usually don't ask you but you wish they would?
JJ: What comes to mind is simple. They should ask, “Why should I choose you?” Here’s what I would say. I’m bringing something to the table that I haven’t really seen yet. Not in Northeast Ohio, anyway. Because of my background, I have the knowledge and experience and the right equipment to get the job done. If you want to create your own, personal Maxim magazine, you need someone that can actually deliver that to you. Plus, being a man allows me to take a different approach than the other photographers, most of which are women. I’m going to see you differently than another woman would. It’s the same reason I rarely photograph guys. It’s not that I can’t or won’t do it. It’s that I’m not very good at it. I can’t look at them and see what’s sexy, I see...well...never mind. Myself, I guess. I see myself.
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Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Photography
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir Photography
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Photography
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir Photography
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir Photography
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir Photography
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir Photography
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir Photography
Not long after, another of our teams had the good fortune of working with him *again* on New Year's Eve at Tricia and Todd's wedding reception at Avon Oaks Country Club. Twice in one season with a photographer is somewhat of an unusual occurrence, just based on the number of wedding photographers and disc jockeys in the area, so I took it as a hint from the universe to get him on the blog ASAP! ;)
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Like all wedding professionals featured on the Something New Entertainment blog, Hunter appears by virtue of and as a testament to his talent as well as to his great personality. Here's what the Something New Entertainment staff loves about Hunter: is organized, professional, friendly, and his work has a very "clean," modern style to it that you'll immediately recognize.
Enough prologue! On with the interview!
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Something New Entertainment's DJ Anna-Jeannine "DJ AJ9" Herman: What first interested you in photography?
Hunter Photographic's Hunter Harrison: I picked up photography at a very young age. My father was kind enough to gift me a really old Nikon SLR camera. Thereafter, I really could not get enough of photography. For the longest time, it was my oldest and most dear hobby. Photography is deeply personal to me and it has always been something I turn to purely for enjoyment. As time went on, it only made sense to turn my personal passion into my career as well.
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DJ AJ9: How long have you been photographing weddings?
HH: For a little over four years, but things have really taken off in the past couple years. After some early hard work, I was able to leave my previous career and focus solely on photography. Looking forward, we see nothing but great things on the horizon. I'm really excited for what the future holds.
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DJ AJ9: How would you describe your photographic style? HH: I have a bright and romantic editorial style. For my clients, I aim to capture photos that are emotionally driven. I really want photos that are both organic, but romantic was well. More generally, I blend photojournalism and fine-art portraiture to create an editorial style similar to what you would see in magazines.
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DJ AJ9: What do you enjoy most about being a wedding photographer? HH: Simply put, happiness. I have blessed to work with couples during the happiest period of their lives together. I have the most extraordinary and endearing clients you could imagine. Their happiness rubs off on me and really makes my entire life that much more worthwhile.
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DJ AJ9: What is the most important consideration couples should make when hiring a photographer for their wedding? HH: Strangely enough, it's not the photographers style, although that is important too. A good personality match is most important for me. I believe couples should find a professional photographer with a great personality. After all, the photographer will be the couples shadow throughout the entire day. The photographer must also directly interact with the family and guests. Having a friendly person to work with really makes the difference. Second and third considerations would be experience and photographic style.
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DJ AJ9: What are some ways couples can prepare for their wedding to help ensure better photos? HH: Talk to their photographer and listen. Take time with the photographer weeks before the wedding to complete a good plan. Make sure to express your desires regarding the photographs. Give the photographer specifics about what you want, but also general themes. For example, a theme of "intimate romance" or "fast-paced energy". A good photographer will know how to translate these themes into great results. Also critically important - listen to your photographer. A professional photographer will have a good sense of timing, style and execution. The couple is paying for the photographer's experience, so be willing to trust and listen. This is why I always include unlimited planning time. Clients know that I am always here as a resource.
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DJ AJ9: What's your favorite must capture moment during the wedding day? HH: Leaving aside the obvious moments, there are a couple I really look for. The first is an honest and peaceful moment between the couple. Something natural and not posed. The other is a look of pride from the parents. A wedding is a big day for the parents as well, and I want to make sure their joy and pride is captured as well.
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DJ AJ9: What's the question I'm not asking you but you wish I would, or What's the question that clients usually don't ask you but you wish they would? HH: I never get asked about photo editing. For example, how I select the final photographs from all the ones captured at a wedding. Being able to pick the best work is as important as knowing when to press the trigger. A simple way for couples to learn about a photographer's editing skill is to request access to a full wedding gallery. A single wedding gallery should demonstrate skill, consistency, emotion, and a progression of the wedding story. I'm always willing to show complete weddings and wish couples would ask more. Generally, I volunteer to show my work.
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DJ AJ9: What do you look for in a great DJ and what are your DJ pet peeves? How can your DJ "co-workers" help you, hurt you, or irritate you throughout the day? HH: A great DJ:
Brings the mic to the Best Man/Maid of Honor and encourages them to stand beside the couple for the toast. This allows for great eye contact during the toast, a photographically clean image, and limits stereo system feedback.
Can get open dancing started with a bang and keeps people on the dance floor
Is painfully polite and professional
Understands that the MC and photographer must work in tandem during the reception and takes a moment to review the schedule with the photographer. Also, helps to spot changes and keeps photographer informed.
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HH: DJ pet-peeves:
Over the microphone - "It's time for the cake-cutting. Grab your cameras and get a picture of the happy couple", with no mention of the photographer. I've lost a few shots because of this in the past.
Overly talkative on the mic or creates a sense that the DJ is the show. Even worse, rudeness of any kind (but this is just my personal taste).
Changes in schedule without a head's up to the photographer. I almost missed a first dance because of this. We got it, but I was none to happy. It's really easy - just look to see the photographer is in the room before starting an important "tradition" moment. The photographer can then handle it from there.
Truthfully, I always take a moment to check in with the DJs when I see them. I definitely have a responsibility to be nice and help as well. We are all busy professionals with different needs and goals. If we all help, then everything goes great for the couple.
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Hunter Harrison of Hunter Photographic
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About Hunter Harrison: My name is Hunter Harrison and I’m a passionate lifestyle wedding photographer. Other fun facts? My wife is Brooke, our dog is Moxie, I have a serious addiction to auto racing, and a crippling phobia of tomatoes.
About Hunter Phoographic: Our philosophy is to provide personal service and treat all clients as close friends. Our aesthetic is a mixture of photojournalism and fine-art portraiture, with a focus on romantic, organic and absolutely timeless imagery. To achieve this aesthetic, we use a mixture of digital, film and polaroid cameras. Our work has been published in The Knot Magazine (Ohio), Professional Photographer magazine and on blogs such as Navy & Lavender Notes.
Lighting Design by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
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Thanks so much for visiting us at the Cleveland 2012 Winter Today's Bride Show last weekend, January 14 and 15, 2012 at the IX Center in Cleveland! We had a great time catching up with our colleagues, meeting all of you, and -- once again -- being honored with the task of providing lightscaping for the Gallery of Reception table Ideas! Check out photos of last year's Gallery in our 2011 Facebook album!
Several members of the Something New Entertainment team of Disc Jockeys, Masters of Ceremonies, Lighting Designers, Musicians, and Dancers were on-site to assist with your questions and hear about your exciting upcoming plans!
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Booth and Lighting Design by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
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DJ AJ9, MC Justin, MC Tony, DJ Mike, MC Jack, DJ Abby, and Assistant DJ-in-training Rachael (our thirteen-year-old sister) enjoyed meeting many lovely brides while showcasing some of our repertoire of lighting design and lightscaping options in the Today's Bride Gallery of Reception Table Ideas downstairs. We hope you voted for your favorite table in the gallery, and we can't wait to hear who the winner will be. there were so many truly stunning designs from local wedding professionals including our friends at the Clifton Barn, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Browns, L'Nique Specialty linen Rental, Normandy Party Center, Gervasi Vineyard, Party Decor, and more!
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Uplighting by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lighting Designed by Something New Entertainment's DJ AJ9. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
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DJ AJ9 chose several colors of lighting to compliment the variety of table designs featured in the gallery, creating a stunning overall lightscape for the room, including uplighting in a deep plum violet-purple, a warm yellow amber gold, and a bright watermelon fuchsia pink, as well as a "lighted monogram" of the Something New Entertainment Logo, below.
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Lighting Design by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
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Check out more of these beautiful shots of the Gallery, below, generously provided by Dale McDonald of Digital Photos by Dale. Thank you, Dale!!!
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Booth and Lighting Design by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lightscaping by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lightscaping and Lighted Monogram by Something New entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Uplighting by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lightscaping by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lightscaping by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Uplighting by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lighting Designed by Something New Entertainment’s DJ AJ9. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lightscaping and Lighted Monogram by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Uplighting and Lighted Monogram by Something New Entertainment. Photo by Visions by Swain Photography.
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On Saturday, December 31, 2012 (New Year's Eve), we (DJ Justin and DJ AJ9) were privileged to provide Disc Jockey, Master of Ceremonies, and Lighting Design Services for Brittany and Andrew's Winter Wonderland Themed wedding reception held at the Foltz Center in East Canton, Ohio, featuring beautiful royal blue uplighting and a lighted monogram.
Special thanks to Dan and Connie from Visions by Swain Photography for these beautiful photos of his absolutely stunning event!
The groom, Andrew, actually ordered their lighted monogram as a top secret special surprise for his new bride, Brittany. She had no idea until she walked in (during the grand entrance) and saw their new monogram on the floor. Dan and Connie from Visions by Swain Photography captured this special moment and sent it to us. This has got to be one of my very favorite photos of all time!!!
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The Grand Entrance of the Bride and Groom, and the Bride's first sight of the lighted monogram. Photo by Visions by Swain Photography.
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Then, in true fairytale style, they danced the night away!
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The Bride and Groom's traditional First Dance. Photo by Visions by Swain Photography.
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Check out a few more sweet pictures from Andrew and Brittany's big day by Visions by Swain Photography, below, at the end of this post!
Considering lighting design for your big day? Consider these "before" photos of this bride and groom's venue, and experience what a dramatic difference lighting design can make:
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The Foltz Center
The Foltz Center Stage
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In the months before the wedding, Andrew, Brittany, and DJ AJ9 met several times for planning and especially to make sure that the lighting design fot the Foltz Center was perfect. Here are a couple of the lighting design simulations from Andrew and Brittany's design consultations:
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One of the concepts for Andrew and Brittany's lighted monogram design. If you look carefully, you can see the very subtle snowflake patterns in the photo of the lighted monogram, above, as well!
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Full-room panorama of the Foltz Center showing proposed lighting design concept by DJ AJ9, August 15, 2011
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Detail of the Foltz Center stage showing proposed lighting design concept by DJ AJ9, August 15, 2011
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Uplighting and Lighted Monogram by Something New Entertainment. Photo by Visions by Swain Photography.
The Bride and Groom’s traditional First Dance. Photo by Visions by Swain Photography.
We (DJ AJ9 and DJ Justin) first met Kristy (and Jimmy) Taaffe of Limelight Images Photography while disc jockeying and lightscaping Erica and Bruce's wedding this past August at the Holiday Inn, Boardman near Youngstown, Ohio, just east of the Akron-Cleveland metro area. You might remember Erica and Bruce's STUNNING Plum Violet Purple Uplighting designed by DJ AJ9 (below). You can also check out our photos from their wedding as well as their video testimonial.
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
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We had a great time working with these two, and (as you'll see) their images from Bruce and Erica's wedding are great, too! You'll especially appreciate the color accuracy of the lighting design in Kristy and Jimmy's photos (like the one, above) versus the ones from my little point-and-shoot. As you can see, their images capture the true red-violet hue of the uplighting, whereas the point-and-shoot photos of the lightscaping appear blue-ish and have all kinds of crazy hot spots. Again, this is a superb exercise in "limelighting" the importance of a professional photographer to capture these special moments in stunning detail.
Besides -- your DJ probably just won't be around to capture gorgeous (and fun!) moments like this:
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
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Or this:
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
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I love this interview with Kristy, especially, because I love what she had to say about what she enjoys most about photographing weddings -- the . It's surprisingly similar to my own feelings!!!
"...The biggest day of their lives...And then you get to see it all come to life... It is magical. Getting to be a part of that every weekend is a true honor."
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
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Ok -- enough prologue! On with the interview!
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
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Something New Entertainment's DJ Anna-Jeannine "AJ9" Herman: What first interested you in photography? Limelight Images's Kristy Taaffe: An image that was shot at my wedding. It was the only picture I liked from our photographer (sad to say) He almost threw it away because neither of us were looking at the camera, it was just a moment he captured, not posed, real. From then on I was hooked.
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
Limelight Images Photography
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AJ9: How long have you been photographing weddings?
KT: I have been shooting weddings a little over 3 years professionally, my husband, Jimmy has been shooting almost 8 years.
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
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AJ9: How would you describe your photographic style? KT: We like to say our style is your style but I guess it can be described as a cross between candid/photo journalistic with a hint of traditional and a pinch of funny sophistication. If that even makes sense. LOL.
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
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AJ9: What do you enjoy most about being a wedding photographer? KT: That is a super tough question because I love every single thing about it. I guess the thing I enjoy most is the cookie table. Just kidding, although it is a perk! Sitting down with a couple at a consultation you get to hear the beginning stages of their planning process for the biggest day of their lives. You get to hear how they met, how he proposed, what their dreams and visions are for their wedding day. And then you get to see it all come to life. The flowers, the cake, the colors, her dress, his face. It is magical. Getting to be a part of that every weekend is a true honor.
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
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AJ9: What is the most important consideration couples should make when hiring a photographer for their wedding? KT: I guess the most important thing is can this photographer give me what I want. Then you need to figure out what that is. Every couple should have a list of what they want from their photographer. Great images are a given but is it the right style for you, are they in your budget, are they easy to work with, do I get the rights, are they added costs for rights, how much coverage do I get for my wedding, what is the turn around time. It is all important but make sure you are getting what YOU want.
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
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AJ9: What are some ways that couples can prepare for their wedding day to help ensure better photos? KT: Awesome question, first and most important is time. A lot of couples do not plan the proper amount of time for pictures. Also to be very mindful of key locations. Ex. Some couples plan on getting ready at their church, sometimes that is fine however they usually stuff you into a bible study room or a toddler room. Is that the back drop you want when you have your mom and closest friend putting you into your beautiful gown? It is a great idea to call your photographer and plan these things together. Your photographer can help with timing and locations.
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
Photo by Limelight Images Photography
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AJ9: What's your favorite "must capture" moment during the day? KT: The groom's face as his bride is walking down the aisle.
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Photo by Limelight Images Photography
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AJ9: What's the question I'm not asking you but you wish I would, or What's the question that clients usually don't ask you but you wish they would? KT: You asked some pretty good questions. I guess it would be how many images do I get? Every photographer is different and every couple is different and it depends again on what you want. There are some photographers out there that will give you hundreds and hundreds (maybe thousands) of images. The more the merrier is not the case here. You want a good number of images covering your entire day however do you honest want 25 pictures of your cake? It gets too confusing. A good photographer knows what images to get and how to cover the day properly. But do not be disappointed because your friends photographer gave her 1200 images. Ask her to see them, many of them will be terrible images. And in the end I bet she would have preferred 300 AWESOME images.
Pinspotting and Lightscaping by Something New Entertainment Lighting Design. Photo by MC Heather Gott.
As you likely know, Something New Entertainment offers more than just Disc Jockey service for your Northeast Ohio wedding or special event, including a variety of event lighting design and lightscaping options in addition to DJ and MC services, and perhaps one of our most popularly-inquired-about lighting design services among Akron, Canton, and Cleveland area wedding planners and florists may also be our most-inquired-about service among brides and grooms for the exact opposite reason: pinspotting!
After several recent inquiries that are easily summarized as "what the heck is pinspotting?" I thought I'd clear the air in an easily-searchable fashion! I hope this "Dear DJ AJ9" post helps answer all your questions about pinspotting!
So -- what exactly is pinspotting, and how can you use it at your event? Again -- as you likely know -- I'm a very visual person, and I'm a firm believer that a picture is worth a thousand words, minimum! So -- without further ado, here's a great photo to answer your question.
Photo by Mark Malliet
This photo is a great before and after illustration of the power of pinspotting. Click to enlarge! Whether you're using natural, dim, or colored uplighting (which helps dramatically with overall ambiance of your event), pinspotting can help to call focus to important areas or objects -- some examples include your head table, your centerpieces, or your cake -- as shown in these images.
Literally -- a "pin spot" is a very narrow spotlight used to highlight elements of your decor to ensure that they don't get lost in the landscape of your event, particularly if the lighting is dim. With so many carefully-chosen pieces of beautiful decor, it's a lovely touch to draw your guests attention to the most important in the room, rather than letting them go lost in the mix, especially for photos.
As you can see in the photo on the left, above, the cake is all but hidden in the landscape of the room. Check out this detail of the photo, below, and imagine how the photo of the cake cutting will look.
Photo by Mark Malliet.
However, a little pinspotting, and voila! See below!
Photo by Mark Malliet.
Pinspotting is a spectacular addition to the lightscape of your event to add drama, emphasis, and visibility for your cake, centerpieces, or head table. If you have additional questions about lighting design, please feel free to contact DJ AJ9 by phone at 330-253-2900 or by e-mail.
Lighting Design by Something New Entertainment. Photo by MC Heather Gott.
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The event also included a full five course meal by Glenmoor's Executive Chef Brendan Meeker -- famous for his fresh, never-hotboxed fare, as well as for his amazing personal transformation over the past two years. Chef Meeker is truly an inspiration to us all, reminding us that great food can also be great for you!
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Soft amber uplighting compliments the natural candlelight. Lighting Design by Something New Entertainment.
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To create a sense of warmth in the stone room and complement the existing fall colors in Glenmoor's Chapel decor -- red walls, gold sconces, red, gold, and green tapestries and pennants, as well as the beautiful tablescapes created for the showcase in gold, grass green, copper, and ruby -- DJ AJ9 chose a warm amber for the uplighting in the room, focusing on the dramatic, regal architecture, especially the stone pillars.
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Uplighting by Something New Entertainment Lighting Design. Photo by MC Heather Gott.
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Uplighting by Something New Entertainment Lighting Design. Photo by MC Heather Gott.
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To draw out some of the important accents in the room, including the cakes and selected centerpieces, DJ AJ9 chose a purer-toned white spotlight effect to really make them "pop."
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Pinspotting by Something New Entertainment.
Pinspotting by Something New Entertainment.
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Pinspotting by Something New Entertainment Lighting Design. Photo by MC Heather Gott.
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You can see what a dramatic effect this subtle difference in lighting color has on the overall lightscape of the room!
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Lighting Design by Something New Entertainment.
Pinspotting by Something New Lighting Design.
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Spotlighting by Something New Entertainment Lighting Design. Photo by MC Heather Gott.
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Floral Design by the Budding Tree. Uplighting by Something New Entertainment.
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Beautiful tablescape by the Budding Tree. Lightscaping by Something New Entertainment Lighting Design.
In anticipation of our busiest booking season, Something New Entertainment seeks an experienced sales person to join our growing team as a Brand Ambassador.
General Purpose
Something New Entertainment is seeking a dedicated brand ambassador and sales representative. This is an excellent opportunity for someone seeking a growing position with a growing company. Schedule currently flexible and negotiable -- part-time to start with definite full-time potential based on performance. Compensation is competitive and will offer incentives for performance.
Responsibilities
maintain and improve upon an already-developed customer database
manage and qualify leads
source and develop client referrals
make sales calls to new and existing clients
develop and make presentations of company products and services to current and potential clients
develop service proposals
present service agreements
maintain sales contact activity records and reports
respond to sales inquiries and concerns by phone, electronically or in person
ensure customer service satisfaction and good client relationships
participate in sales events
other tasks as assigned
Education and Experience
computer friendly
people friendly
grammar, spelling, and punctuation friendly
genuinely friendly
great sense of humor
well-groomed
knowledge of basic business principles
experience in sales desired
B.A. desired, but certainly not required
Ability to convince AJ9 you're the right person for the job
Key Competencies
planning and organizing
persuasiveness
adaptability
personability
excellent verbal and written communication
negotiation
resilience
stress tolerance
goal-driven
Interested? Send your resume/references along with a brief letter of intent to DJ AJ9 - aj9@SomethingNewEntertainment.com.
So, when my involvement with the agency fizzled out, I decided to take a break, come home and try out the photography thing.
