{Tessa + Charlie}
Thursday, May 29, 2008 | By General Bobo
This was the type of wedding that makes me just love my job. I laughed and laughed and laughed. The wedding party was a blast and was willing to do all of my ideas. Tessa and Charlie are the perfect pair. They make me fall in love all over again with my husband. Thank you also to the families for all you hospitality and making us feel so welcomed. We got some amazing photos! 
{Casey one year old}
| By General Bobo
Here is sweet little Casey at one and a half years old. I had the honor of photographing her parent's wedding and them I met Casey last year for the first time. She is so sweet {just like mom and dad} and full of energy. It was fun for me to just follow her around and take photos.
{Vision of Glory Confirmation}
| By General Bobo
Every year I get to photograph the kids at VOG getting confirmed. This is the church I was confirmed at so it always brings back all those happy memories from youth group. This church will always have a special place in my heart. It was a safe place for me to grow and really learn about what it means to walk with Jesus. Thanks for all the memories and blessings to everyone that got confirmed.
Stacy & Jeremy :: May 17, 2008
Monday, May 26, 2008 | By General Bobo
Stacy and Jeremy got married in the small town of Newton, WI... Here are some highlights...
When they cut their cake they cracked their cake knife in half! I was so happy I was able to get the looks on their faces the moment it happened!
When they cut their cake they cracked their cake knife in half! I was so happy I was able to get the looks on their faces the moment it happened!
Frequently Asked Questions
Thursday, May 15, 2008 | By General Bobo
Why the name Ardent Photography?
Ardent is a word that, according to Webster, is characterized by eager warmth of feeling, passion, or intensely devoted. The word perfectly describes the passion that surrounds people in love and my enthusiasm for photographing them.
What is your photographic style?
Artistic, romantic, sophisticated, wedding & relationship photography that is just a bit edgy.
Do you shoot digital or film?
Digital. But I sometimes snap a few frames with an antique film camera for a unique look.
Do you have a studio?
I have a small studio/gallery in my home. I use the space for photo sessions during the winter months and for client meetings.
Did you go to school for photography?
I have my bachelor of fine arts degree in graphic design from the Universtiy of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. In addition to my design degree I also have my minor in art history and many credits in photography.
How long have you been shooting weddings?
I have been shooting weddings unofficially since 2002 (I assisted my first in 1995) and I started Ardent Photography in 2005.
Why do you offer an engagement session with all of your packages?
I offer engagement sessions as "get to know you" time. I love learning about how you met, how you hold hands, what makes you laugh... Plus it is a great time for you to get used to my shooting style and dumb jokes.
How many photos do you take at our wedding?
I average about 200 frames per hour when I shoot with two cameras. The actual amount of proofs you will see is quite a bit lower than that. I go through every photo and hand select the very best images from your day. I remove blinks, motion blurred images and duplicates from the bunch. You will end up with around 600-900 final proofs in your proof book depending on your package coverage.
What kind of albums do you offer?
I offer hardbound coffee table albums in a variety of sizes. I also offer custom art books with leather cover options.
In what format are the initial proofs offered?
You will receive a hardbound proof book contact sheets of all your photos. In addition to the proof book you will have a private website of your wedding images to share with friends, family and co-workers. The proof book is yours to keep forever, the website is live for 60 days.
How soon after the event are the proofs ready for viewing?
I always post a few teaser photos on my blog at www.ardentphotography.blogspot.com. The proofs in their entirety are ready for viewing on your personal website up to 4 weeks from the wedding day.
How do my family and friends know when my online proofing site is ready?
At your reception I will place an email sign-up list near the guest book. Guests will be encouraged to add their information to the list. They will be notified by email when your wedding website will be ready.
Do you retain the copyright for the photos?
Yes. You can purchase the personal rights release and high resolution images from me at any time. Some packages have the high-res files included in the package.
Are your high res files large enough to print larger than 8x10?
I include the same high resolution files I print your photos from on your DVD. The files you receive from me are large enough to print 16x20 and higher, unlike many photographers who say their files are high resolution. Of course, I recommend ordering from Ardent to ensure the highest quality enlargements - plus they will come retouched and mounted on archival board to protect the print for generations.
Do you shoot destination weddings?
Yes. I have done weddings in Boston and California. I have my passport and would love to quote of your destination wedding!
Do you have a replacement photographer in case you become unavailable on the wedding day?
Yes, in the very slim chance an act of God does not allow me to shoot a wedding I have a large network of qualified photographers that could take my place.
What kind of equipment do you typically bring with you on the day-of?
2-3 professional digital SLR camera bodies, a variety of L-Series lenses, 3 flashes, reflectors, up to 36 GB of digital media, a laptop computer, ladder and umbrellas.
Do you bring back-up equipment to the event in case of malfunction?
Yes. I have back up equipment for everything.
How do we reserve our wedding date with Ardent?
Whew! You are still here? Great!!! The first step in reserving your date with Ardent Photography is to find out if your date is available. You can check my calendar section on the website or shoot me and email. The next step is to set up a complimentary photography consultation. After we talk about your wedding dreams and details you will be able to look through printed samples and albums. All I need to retain your date is $350 and a signed contract.
Ardent is a word that, according to Webster, is characterized by eager warmth of feeling, passion, or intensely devoted. The word perfectly describes the passion that surrounds people in love and my enthusiasm for photographing them.
What is your photographic style?
Artistic, romantic, sophisticated, wedding & relationship photography that is just a bit edgy.
Do you shoot digital or film?
Digital. But I sometimes snap a few frames with an antique film camera for a unique look.
Do you have a studio?
I have a small studio/gallery in my home. I use the space for photo sessions during the winter months and for client meetings.
Did you go to school for photography?
I have my bachelor of fine arts degree in graphic design from the Universtiy of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. In addition to my design degree I also have my minor in art history and many credits in photography.
How long have you been shooting weddings?
I have been shooting weddings unofficially since 2002 (I assisted my first in 1995) and I started Ardent Photography in 2005.
Why do you offer an engagement session with all of your packages?
I offer engagement sessions as "get to know you" time. I love learning about how you met, how you hold hands, what makes you laugh... Plus it is a great time for you to get used to my shooting style and dumb jokes.
How many photos do you take at our wedding?
I average about 200 frames per hour when I shoot with two cameras. The actual amount of proofs you will see is quite a bit lower than that. I go through every photo and hand select the very best images from your day. I remove blinks, motion blurred images and duplicates from the bunch. You will end up with around 600-900 final proofs in your proof book depending on your package coverage.
What kind of albums do you offer?
I offer hardbound coffee table albums in a variety of sizes. I also offer custom art books with leather cover options.
In what format are the initial proofs offered?
You will receive a hardbound proof book contact sheets of all your photos. In addition to the proof book you will have a private website of your wedding images to share with friends, family and co-workers. The proof book is yours to keep forever, the website is live for 60 days.
How soon after the event are the proofs ready for viewing?
I always post a few teaser photos on my blog at www.ardentphotography.blogspot.com. The proofs in their entirety are ready for viewing on your personal website up to 4 weeks from the wedding day.
How do my family and friends know when my online proofing site is ready?
At your reception I will place an email sign-up list near the guest book. Guests will be encouraged to add their information to the list. They will be notified by email when your wedding website will be ready.
Do you retain the copyright for the photos?
Yes. You can purchase the personal rights release and high resolution images from me at any time. Some packages have the high-res files included in the package.
Are your high res files large enough to print larger than 8x10?
I include the same high resolution files I print your photos from on your DVD. The files you receive from me are large enough to print 16x20 and higher, unlike many photographers who say their files are high resolution. Of course, I recommend ordering from Ardent to ensure the highest quality enlargements - plus they will come retouched and mounted on archival board to protect the print for generations.
Do you shoot destination weddings?
Yes. I have done weddings in Boston and California. I have my passport and would love to quote of your destination wedding!
Do you have a replacement photographer in case you become unavailable on the wedding day?
Yes, in the very slim chance an act of God does not allow me to shoot a wedding I have a large network of qualified photographers that could take my place.
What kind of equipment do you typically bring with you on the day-of?
2-3 professional digital SLR camera bodies, a variety of L-Series lenses, 3 flashes, reflectors, up to 36 GB of digital media, a laptop computer, ladder and umbrellas.
Do you bring back-up equipment to the event in case of malfunction?
Yes. I have back up equipment for everything.
How do we reserve our wedding date with Ardent?
Whew! You are still here? Great!!! The first step in reserving your date with Ardent Photography is to find out if your date is available. You can check my calendar section on the website or shoot me and email. The next step is to set up a complimentary photography consultation. After we talk about your wedding dreams and details you will be able to look through printed samples and albums. All I need to retain your date is $350 and a signed contract.
Bling - Becky & Jason :: May 3, 2008
Wednesday, May 14, 2008 | By General Bobo
©2008 Ardent Photography LLC
Teaser photo from Becky and Jason's wedding on May 3, 2008. Their photos are ABSOLUTELY stunning and I cannot wait to get a slide show up on the blog for you all to view!Oh - and I'm testing new watermarks that include my new logo... I had a designer help me with the concept last September and I am finally getting things updated with the new modern/edgy look... do you like???
{enjoy} workshop
| By General Bobo
ready for an exciting, interactive and energetic workshop?
what to expect
This workshop is going to be so much fun! Immerse yourself in three days of focusing on your business and learning some amazing new shooting techniques. This will take you photography to the next level. Not only will you get hands on experience shooting, but hear vital information about the business side as well. This course is perfect for anyone who is presently doing wedding or portrait photography from home, a studio or as a side job.
The workshop is hosted and taught by erin johnson. There will also be another Minneapolis photographer coming as a guest speaker. She will be re veiled closed to the dates.
This is YOUR time to {enjoy} photography!
topics covered
business
~what are your dreams, goals and lifestyle
~defining your art style and find your identity
~how to price your work
~maximizing your work flow
~how to create images that set you apart
~individual critiques
photography techniques
~exposures
~shooting in difficult lighting
~making any location look fabulous
~posing and directing
two live shoots
engagement session and bridal shoot
We set up two on location shoots with beautiful models and stunning locations. We will provide hair and makeup, as well as clothing and all the necessities. This is your chance to get some amazing new photographs for your portfolio!
when is it?
Wednesday, June 25, 2008 - 6:00pm meet & greet (over a lovely dinner and a glass of wine of course)
Thursday, June 26, 2008 - 9:00am - 5:00pm sessions (dinner on your own)
Friday, June 27, 2008 - 9:00am - 5:00pm sessions (we will make a dinner reservation at a near by restaurant. everyone is welcomed to stay and socialize.)
class size
The class size is limited to 10 maximum. Classes are kept small for one on one instructor attention. Please reserve your space as soon as possible to avoid any disappointment.
reservation fees
All this for only $650! To reserve your place please contact erin at mail@erinjohnsonphoto.com. There is a non-refundable deposit of $300 due at the time of the booking. The remaining balance is due two days before the workshop begins.
what to bring
digital SLR (required)
laptop with editing software installed (photo shop recommended)
portfolio, business cards, pricing sheet and any marketing materials
food
Wednesday evening dinner as well as Thursday & Friday's breakfast and lunch will be provided. We will make dinner reservations for Friday night.
accommodations
For a hotel we recommend the Double Tree Hotel - Park Place 952-542-8600. For our out of town guests, we will have a pick up shuttle arranged for you from either airport.
what to expect
This workshop is going to be so much fun! Immerse yourself in three days of focusing on your business and learning some amazing new shooting techniques. This will take you photography to the next level. Not only will you get hands on experience shooting, but hear vital information about the business side as well. This course is perfect for anyone who is presently doing wedding or portrait photography from home, a studio or as a side job.
The workshop is hosted and taught by erin johnson. There will also be another Minneapolis photographer coming as a guest speaker. She will be re veiled closed to the dates.
This is YOUR time to {enjoy} photography!
topics covered
business
~what are your dreams, goals and lifestyle
~defining your art style and find your identity
~how to price your work
~maximizing your work flow
~how to create images that set you apart
~individual critiques
photography techniques
~exposures
~shooting in difficult lighting
~making any location look fabulous
~posing and directing
two live shoots
engagement session and bridal shoot
We set up two on location shoots with beautiful models and stunning locations. We will provide hair and makeup, as well as clothing and all the necessities. This is your chance to get some amazing new photographs for your portfolio!
when is it?
Wednesday, June 25, 2008 - 6:00pm meet & greet (over a lovely dinner and a glass of wine of course)
Thursday, June 26, 2008 - 9:00am - 5:00pm sessions (dinner on your own)
Friday, June 27, 2008 - 9:00am - 5:00pm sessions (we will make a dinner reservation at a near by restaurant. everyone is welcomed to stay and socialize.)
class size
The class size is limited to 10 maximum. Classes are kept small for one on one instructor attention. Please reserve your space as soon as possible to avoid any disappointment.
reservation fees
All this for only $650! To reserve your place please contact erin at mail@erinjohnsonphoto.com. There is a non-refundable deposit of $300 due at the time of the booking. The remaining balance is due two days before the workshop begins.
what to bring
digital SLR (required)
laptop with editing software installed (photo shop recommended)
portfolio, business cards, pricing sheet and any marketing materials
food
Wednesday evening dinner as well as Thursday & Friday's breakfast and lunch will be provided. We will make dinner reservations for Friday night.
accommodations
For a hotel we recommend the Double Tree Hotel - Park Place 952-542-8600. For our out of town guests, we will have a pick up shuttle arranged for you from either airport.
kia + jason {enjoy} being bride
Tuesday, May 13, 2008 | By General Bobo
We found this great old barn which was the perfect background with her boots and his hat. the flowers by flora were absolutely perfect!
kia + jason {enjoy} being bride
Monday, May 12, 2008 | By General Bobo
Here is the last post from Kia and Jason's shoot. Again fabulous job and thanks for letting me be part of your lives.
