Cherry Blossom Photography

last entry

2010-03-29T13:13:00.003-05:00

This will be the last entry in this blog... thanks blogspot, it's been a good run but it's time to break-up!

please come visit me at cherrybphotography.squarespace.com. Make sure to update your bookmarks.

There is already a new post waiting for you...

See you there!

Carly

the buckleys - austin family photography

2010-03-25T17:41:00.002-05:00

I'm trying out a new look for blog images design so things might be funky for a little while...

Here are a few shots from The Buckley's Holiday Session. The following image has little post- processing done to it, it was literally THAT foggy! The Buckley's were troupers, we were all bound to make it happen, through fog, cold and rain!

Carly

p can spell

2010-03-23T12:27:00.002-05:00

New post coming soon, but in the meantime...

My oldest niece, P, is starting to spell and Jason sent this pic to show us what her first word was.

For those of you who don't know, my husband is Joe and P adores her uncle, as you can see! The feeling is mutual; so when these two get together, it's like no one else is around.

Carly

the clinkenbeards - austin kids photography

2010-03-14T18:46:00.002-05:00

Parents please remember: bribery NEVER works during a portrait session! (hehe) Please see below for an example of this fact.

As you can see in this next photo, the fact that J's parents gave him a lollipop absolutely could not make him any cuter! or could it...?

All kidding aside, J is so fun and full of personality and really is the most adorable! I have so much fun with him. We met right before Christmas at the Hill Country Galleria and we were even able to get some shots of him with Santa. I didn't include those in the post though because it is now March and it just wouldn't make sense (I am a little behind in blogging).

J has a brother coming in May so we snuck in a few of the whole family as well. All were present: Amy, Casey, J and Fruitsnack!

I am so excited about this weekend's Day in the Bluebonnets. Although, I think next year it will definitely need to have a more clever name....A Day in the Bluebonnets? So vanilla!

Some of you who are signed up have been asking if you, the parents, can be in the pictures as well. Of course! The session is short and we will be on a schedule but I would love for parents to be included in a few of the shots if they would like to be.

Also, those of you signed up for bluebonnets know this but to the rest of my clients, I am now set-up to accept CC payments via Paypal on the website! Woot! I thought it was going to be such a process but ended up being the easiest thing ever. Welcome to 2010!

Carly

the casanova family - san antonio family photography

2010-03-07T16:18:00.003-06:00

Jennifer is Tiffany's sister and therefore like family to me...

I met the Casanova's in San Antonio at my family's ranch. I was so excited because this location fit their family's personality perfectly. A loves horses and we were able to saddle up one of the horses and let her sit while I took pictures. She was in heaven.

This may have been the COLDEST day ever or at least it felt like it to me. My hands were numb so I had a lot of camera shake (bad planning on my part) and I'm pretty sure that the Casanovas had trouble smiling through the chattering of their teeth.

All in all, we got a few good shots and I promised them that we would go back in the Spring/Summer so they can get a full tour of the ranch and we can get some shots in other locations besides huddled up next to the barn! :)

Thanks Jennifer, Joe and A for braving the cold!

Carly

jacoby wedding - austin wedding photography

2010-03-01T12:32:00.004-06:00

Yesterday I was was honored and privileged to photograph a beautiful wedding. This is only the second wedding I have done and the first for Cherry Blossom Photography.

The bride was a friend who I had not been in touch with for about 15 years! She and her husband had a small and very intimate wedding here in Austin at the most fabulous venue. The love, devotion and commitment of this couple was palpable. Congratulations M & C!

Here's a sneak peek...

Carly

day in the bluebonnets

2010-02-24T22:12:00.002-06:00

SOLD OUT

v-day

2010-02-14T22:04:00.003-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day! I love that the holiday has fallen on the weekend for the last two years. For me, its not about chocolates and roses (even though I did get some very pretty flowers)...being able to spend the whole day with my honey is enough.

This a sample from Miss C's Christmas session. Since it's February and I am just now posting them, I picked ones which didn't have the Christmas tree in the background. I always have the best time photographing C and now her mommy is expecting another cutie-pie, so it will be double the fun! It's amazing how much she has changed since her very first session.

Tomorrow, a new client session. I am so excited to meet them...we are supposed to have a beautiful day. Is anyone else ready for some sunshine?

Carly

snow.hubby

2010-02-11T15:42:00.000-06:00

Carly

snow.kids

2010-02-05T12:04:00.001-06:00

Carly

snow.dogs

2010-02-04T14:43:00.002-06:00

Carly

snow.babies

2010-02-03T23:14:00.002-06:00

Carly

vacation sneak peek

2010-02-01T18:14:00.002-06:00

We had a fantastic time in NY. Here is a sneak peek.

Miss E...

Carly

vacation and p's birthday - austin photography

2010-01-25T11:21:00.003-06:00

The Adam/Hulme/Rodriguez clan all leave tomorrow for a vacation. We have family who live in Endicott, NY. We are so excited for a cold get-a-way. It has been warm in NY for the last week so a lot of the snow has melted but we hear that they are getting snow tonight and a few times while we are there. I am so excited to be with the girls when they see snow for the first time. Presleigh has been practicing her snow angel skills. The adults will be skiing, snowmobiling and relaxing by the fire.

So I leave you with some photos from Presleigh's 3rd Birthday Party...

The giant cupcake that Candice made...

P didn't what to think when we started singing...

A change of tune...

She's three...

Little sister...

Somehow Sydney got to almost all of P's presents before she did :)

Tuckered out from playing in the jumpy house that Aunt Carly and Uncle Joe got them for Christmas...

second wind...

Carly

the brewer family - austin family photography

2010-01-19T22:00:00.003-06:00

I met the Brewers at the Avery Ranch Golf Club. It is such a great location!

The Brewers have four kiddos, two older and two younger, so the dynamic of the kids together was really cool. The older kids are very nurturing and loving with the younger ones and you can tell that M adores her older brother.

M is too cute for words, she is full of personality. L is at the age where he was just exploring everything...even going as far as to "taste" a dandelion during our session which made for a fun photo.

Carly

the cisneros family - san antonio family photography

2010-01-10T20:27:00.002-06:00

I have known this family for quite a while now. You may remember "I" from here. "P" and "I" are the best of friends and so are their moms. Rachel had been wanting to do a family shoot for a while but we were waiting for "N" to be able to sit up.

This session was so fun! Rachel picked out a fabulous location in San Antonio and the kiddos had a great time. "I" had a blast playing air drums and guitar while "N" entertained himself by crawling around (which at the time looked more like "the worm").

Thanks Cisneros family, it was so fun! Can't wait for next time.

Carly

the robbins family - austin family photography

2010-01-05T19:30:00.002-06:00

I first met Miss E at the Halloween Picture Party. She didn't really take a shining to me then but we ended up getting a few really beautiful shots of her in her costume.

This is my favorite from that day...

A few weeks later, E's mom contacted me about a family shoot and I was so excited to get a second chance to win her over! :) We decided to do the shoot at their house in Dripping Springs so E would be more comfortable and I am so glad we did. The shoot was one of the best I have ever had. There home and the land surrounding it are beautiful, the family was relaxed and comfortable and it really shines through in the pictures.

What a character!

Fabulous (all-natural) lens flare!

Brooke, I can't wait for future sessions with you and your family. Our session and the finished product made me so proud and reminded me of how much I love what I do!

Carly

the driffill/lee family - san antonio family photography

2010-01-02T20:50:00.005-06:00

I am so excited for this family to be the very first post for 2010 as they were one of my first clients!

Jeanette is one of my besties! I've seen her through fires (literally), pregnancy and career crisis. She's seen me through fires (in the non-literal sense) and a few career crisis' of my own. She was the preggo bridesmaid in my wedding and I have done my best to be a part (as much as possible) of "Money Man's" young life every since.

D is quite the character...very entertaining and interactive whether the camera is on or off. The Lee's are always a blast and are one of the warmest people I have known! They have a way of making you feel like a part of their family instantly.

Woot, Woot to all my new FB fans!

Carly

the eckert/collins family - austin family photography

2009-12-31T11:39:00.004-06:00

I have been holding on to this post for a while now. The photos were to be a Christmas surprise for the grandparents. I'm crossing my fingers that I have waited long enough. I was just about to post this right after Christmas and then saw on Brenda's FB that they were just leaving to visit her folks...dodged that one.

This session was so fun! The kiddos had a blast splashing in the water, playing ring-around-the-rosy and hamming it up for the camera. The parents and had fun chasing the kiddos around and making sure they didn't fall head-first into the water.

Can you see my eyeball in there?

Most of the time, this trick doesn't work but this time it did and it turned out to be such a cute photo.

The whole group

The Eckerts

The Collins'

In other news, CBP now has a Facebook Fan Page. Click on the link to the right to become a fan!

Stay tuned for more exciting 2010 news.

Carly

merry christmas to all

2009-12-26T13:32:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas All!

Here are some pics taken with my new camera. It's going to take some getting used to, so I have been practicing.

Our Tree...

Pepper has been laying in this spot non-stop since we put the tree up. She likes the lights and being able to look out the window at the same time.

Lunch for my mom's birthday at Alamo Cafe in San Antonio.

Joe talking to Presleigh...she's hanging on his every word. :)

Sydney being silly...

Ummmm, I don't know. She thought it was funny to sit in the booster on the floor and eat her cookies while mom opened her presents...

Grams (their great-grandma) bought them "food" for their kitchen. Love it!

Presleigh with Grams. They are buddies...

Joe and I stopped in Johnson City on the way home to look at the lights at the Pedernales Electric headquarters. My friend Jon says over 1 million lights were used.

I am off work for the next week so look forward to many blog entries between now and then. I need to catch everyone up on the latest portrait sessions.

Also, Cherry Blossom is going to be going through some "growing pains" (more gains than pains) for the next few weeks. Look forward to some changes in the new year. I am so excited!

Carly

happy birthday mom

2009-12-24T00:01:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday to Mom, Happy Birthday to You!

Today we will be celebrating in our traditional way...lunch at Alamo Cafe. We have skipped this tradition for a couple of years so we are excited to start it up again.

Mom, I love you! I hope your day is extra special, just like you.

Carly

merry christmas - austin baby photography

2009-12-22T18:51:00.001-06:00

My favorites from the Christmas mini-shoots...

Carly

the chambliss family - austin baby photography

2009-12-17T11:31:00.002-06:00

I think I have a new nickname for Mrs. Huston, "Referral Rachel". ha! Cheesy, but so true! Rachel was referred by Tiffany who then referred me to 5 of her friends. Who needs to spend money on marketing when you have incredible people like this? Thank you so much for all of your referrals!

The Chambliss' are neighbors with the Hustons. We decided early on that we would do our session at their house because we scheduled for November and because little J is so young. Well...good thing we did because we picked one of the rainiest days of the month. We did most of the session indoors and then we ventured out to the porch for a few more. Leslie, can't wait for the spring when J is sitting up and we can take him out in the bluebonnets!

*Side Note: Leslie and I were reminded of just how small this world is. We realized that we have two friends in common from two totally different places in our lives. She is friends with one of my dorm neighbors when I attended Baylor and she is also friends with my staff leader from when I was a Young Life leader in San Antonio. Small World!

Carly

the huston family - austin family photography

2009-12-13T21:20:00.004-06:00

This is my second session with The Hustons. F&D are so fun to photograph. Mom, R, has a great sense of style as you can tell from the coordination of outfits.

We went to one of my favorite locations to shoot. I was a little concerned that the peacocks wouldn't make an appearance but when they did, F had a blast chasing them around. I thought for sure that one of them would fan their feathers when she got close enough, which we all wanted to see, but they wouldn't, they just ran away. I haven't had any luck with this. Anyone know how to get a peacock to fan out it's feathers?

Favorite!

Carly

the cross clan - san antonio family photography

2009-12-06T13:09:00.003-06:00

I should hire Amanda to be my Art Director... but she probably wouldn't agree to work for $1 a year like Farouk Shami.

She always comes up with the most interesting, appropriate and fun locations for her family sessions and this was no exception. I trusted her eye when she suggested Adobe Village in Spring Branch for the Cross BIG Family shoot but I have to admit I was a little nervous of how it would turn out for a group of 10.

Vibrant color and interesting architecture made beautiful images. See for yourself...

Carly

c is the birthday boy - san antonio event photography

2009-11-30T13:46:00.004-06:00

I was honored when the Collins asked me to shoot C's First Birthday Party! Kim did a fabulous job of turning her backyard into a pumpkin patch. The kids played in the jumpy house, decorated pumpkins, took a hayride and feasted on cool "pumpkin shaped" cupcakes.

You may remember this family from here. Kim, thanks for allowing me to photograph your beautiful family again. Can't wait for next time!

The Birthday Boy

The Party

Carly

the beach boys - san antonio kids photography

2009-11-22T21:54:00.003-06:00

The Beach boys are Steph's nephews. I've known these kiddos since they were wee ones and they are growing up to be very handsome young men. The guys hammed it up for me a few weeks ago while I was in San Antonio. Of course, we could not have a photo shoot at Chez Goode without a little wine and girl talk afterwards.

I love this one of the cousins.

Carly

what we've been up to...

2009-11-20T20:23:00.003-06:00

Wow, it's hard to believe that I have had time to do anything other than work, shoot and edit for the past two months. Somehow J and I have been able to squeeze in some fun into what seems to be an "un-squeezable" schedule.

Stoney LaRue at the Nutty Brown with The Goodes.

Jake put on a "stage worthy" show for us!

(sorry its sideways, please turn your head, pause cherrytunes and rock out)

While J was in NY for work, I noticed a weird shape in the backyard. I walked outside and this is what I saw...

This is just about 3 feet from the stairs/railing which lead into the yard from the porch. We hung out for about 10 minutes. I was walking right up to the edge of the porch and Big Boy just sat there and ate grass.

Mom and I went on our annual B&B weekend to Salado this year. Great shopping and great food!

Last weekend was the Rock n Roll Marathon. I ran the half. I would not like to share my time but I will say that I finished and I will do it again...someday.

Tomorrow we are setting up the tripod and sneaking in our own Christmas picture and then off to the Austin Junior League's "A Christmas Affair" with T & R.

Sunday's a session at Avery Ranch with The Brewer's.

Stay tuned for the Beach Boys' post.

Carly

the gillenwater family - austin family photography

2009-11-16T12:25:00.002-06:00

If you have followed my blog for any time at all, you should know this family. This my best friend Tiffany and her beautiful family. We had a blast doing their holiday shoot this year at The Palmer Event Center. The ladies had so much fun running up and down the hill and mugging for the camera.

T&K have birthdays in December and January. I can't wait until we have their birthday session at a very top secret location!!!

On a sad note, LoRita Beeler lost her battle with ovarian cancer this weekend. I am very sad for this amazing family and I am praying for peace and comfort for Ashley and Jeremy and the rest of the family during this difficult time, please do the same.

Carly

the rodgers - austin family photography

2009-11-10T13:33:00.004-06:00

Tracey is Candice's sister-in-law. She, her husband (Candice's brother) and their two kiddos, C & P, live in Colorado. They were visiting San Antonio a few weeks ago and were able to cruise up to Austin to have some fun at the park with me and my camera (and Tracey was visiting a friend that day).

The shoot was one of the most relaxed and fun I have ever done. Tracey was so laid back with the kiddos and they seemed really comfortable as a result. C loves to do dinosaur impressions and is REALLY smart. P is quiet, sweet and very fashionable...I was really digging her crocheted hat and leg warmers.

We started the shoot in a pavilion down by Lake Austin which after noticing some clothes "hung out to dry" in the bushes, Tracy and I came to conclusion that we were invading someone's home. As we were walking away, we noticed the "tenant" patiently waiting for us to finish so he could go back in....thanks for being so hospitable.

Tracey, thank you, it was SO fun!

Carly

the cooper/beeler/hood family - austin family photography

2009-11-03T13:19:00.003-06:00

This is my friend A. We were great childhood friends until I moved away and we lost touch. I had not seen her in 11 years until this day. It was so great to see her and meet her amazing husband and his family.

A's mother-in-law is battling cancer and was really excited about the idea of the whole family coming together from all over Texas & Oklahoma for some pictures. That's where I came in. A is from San Antonio but her MIL is here in Austin so after A coordinated all of the siblings, we got together on a BEAUTIFUL evening to capture some special moments.

Here are some of my faves...

A, J, L and the whole Beeler/Hood/Cooper Clan, thanks!

To all, please keep this family in your prayers.

Carly

happy halloween - austin kids photography

2009-10-31T15:02:00.003-05:00

Happy Halloween!

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Halloween Picture Party at Paige's! It was so fun and the kiddos looked precious in their costumes.

Here are some of favorites from the day...

Carly

texas trash & treasures - austin commercial photography

2009-10-27T22:43:00.003-05:00

Last week, I was able to attend the grand opening of my aunt's new store in Carmine, Texas

Carmine is located about 10 miles north of Round Top & about halfway between Austin & Houston on Highway 290.

The store is fabulous! Not only is there product amazing but their store features several other local artists/vendors so the merchandise is very diverse. There is definitely something for everyone at Texas Trash & Treasures.

Carly

we have water - austin photography

2009-10-23T11:17:00.004-05:00

Two days ago, this was empty!

I'm not sure what's happening here, I think he is trying to pull a Tracy and hitch-hike...

Carly

the gaths - austin family photography

2009-10-21T22:20:00.003-05:00

I met the Gaths at the AMOA-Laguna Gloria on a humid morning last week...

I have been wanting to shoot at this venue for a while so when L suggested it, I was so excited.

We had amazing light and also managed to get inside the building before it was open (someone happened to leave the door unlocked). As you can see, the kids had a great time. F was very curious and had a blast just checking everything out. B wanted to go inside so bad so he was thrilled when we were able climb the stairs and look over the 2nd floor balcony.

I love meeting all these new families and I love that I am able to provide a tangible memory of this season of their lives!

Thanks M, L, B & F for a fun morning!

Carly

the goodes - san antonio family photography

2009-10-11T18:11:00.003-05:00

Stephanie has been one of my best friends for about 13 years. When we met at work, I was just a young high-schooler starting at my very first job and Steph was the mature 21-year old who was making her way in the world. At a time when age was such a "label", she never made me feel like I was just a kid.

Our time together (then and now) is always full of laughs (we laugh until our cheeks hurt), full of happiness and always slightly inappropriate. But isn't that the best part of spending time with a best friend...feeling free to be authentic and uncensored?

This shoot was extra special, extra fun and it involved wine! so...there you go!

Joel is a "hard core" motorcycle man and is teaching J to be hard core as well. Looks like he's doing a good job.

I love that they thought to include their hobby in the session. Incorporating something you love or love to do into a session is a definite way to step it up to another level.

and incorporating your pet works like a charm also...

Leetle is hard core too!

You may remember J from here. He still likes to wear sunglasses (from his mom's purse) except this time she had to convince him that they weren't from her purse but that the reason they weren't his usual sunglasses was because she had just bought them new for him.

J is HARD CORE...

My favorite bike in "the fleet".

This week is exciting! On Wednesday afternoon, I have a BIG family session. What makes it exciting is that it is the family of a childhood friend of mine whom I have not seen in at least 1o years. We have been catching up a little via Facebook and email but I am so excited to see her again and meet her husband and his family. I am truly honored and humbled that she has asked me to photograph them together as a family during this significant season of their lives. Can't wait A!

Also this week: The Rodgers' who are here all the way from Colorado and the Gillenwater's Holiday Shoot (hope T & T start feeling better).

Hello October, here we go!

Carly

the painters - austin family photography

2009-10-05T07:54:00.004-05:00

These are The Painters...

Aren't they a cute bunch? We met at a park in Round Rock for their shoot and had a great time. The kiddos, Ca & Co are so cute. Ca is full of energy and loved "modeling" for the camera. Co was all smiles and very curios. All of this energy combined made for some great pictures!

Carly

availability update

2009-10-02T22:45:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to make the announcement that I am now closing the books for 2009!

I am fully booked until mid-December (time for a holiday break) except for 3 families which we have not "locked down" a date (you know who you are) but I am not currently making any new appointments.

If you are still interested, please feel free to email me, I will keep you in mind and let you know if I have any dates that come available.

THANKS so much to my clients and those who have referred new clients. There is no greater (or cheaper) form of advertising than word of mouth...I really appreciate it!

Carly

the comers - austin family photography

2009-09-28T21:31:00.005-05:00

Anyone remember the weekend of torrential downpour that we had a couple of weeks ago? Yes, well this session was right in the middle of it. Downtown was surrounded by huge gray/black storm clouds but we were determined and I prayed and we stayed dry! It actually made for some fabulous light so I can't complain.

Meet the Comers! They are an awesome family. I immediately felt at ease with them. J is due with their second in December (J, correct me if I'm wrong) so it made for a fun maternity/family shoot.

This is G. He is so precious with a personality to match!

I LOVE the way J is looking at M in this picture, so much love and pride written on her face.

FAVORITE!

Comers, can't wait for your next session and to meet your new addition!

Oh yeah, this is now my fave location! A little bit country, a little bit rock and roll...

Carly

availability update

2009-09-24T14:29:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to let you guys know that I am now completely booked for the months of October and November. If you are still wanting a session before Christmas, I have openings in December but book soon as they are going fast.

the cross kids-san antonio kids photography

2009-09-22T10:15:00.006-05:00

In honor of C & M's birthdays (4 & 1 respectively), we did a shoot in Blanco a few weeks ago. You may remember the two of them from here.

Their mom is the best Art Director! She knows exactly what she wants and comes up with the coolest locations and ideas for sessions. If you know her (which several of my blog followers do), she is the go-to for these kind of ideas.

Our first stop was a sno-cone stand in Blanco. They weren't open so we improvised with Sonic slushies. Sssshhh, don't give away the secret!

I LOVE his expression in this....it's like he is wishing he were the one taking the bite of sno-cone.

C, went home after this and it was just us girls. A picked out the second location also...an outdoor market on the north side of Blanco.

I drive by this place every week when I go to San Antonio and had never even noticed it.

A ride on the big, PINK Tractor...

Thanks A & L for allowing me to capture these special family memories! It is always a pleasure.

Carly

15

2009-09-20T12:40:00.003-05:00

Today marks the 13th anniversary of the day J and I had our first date. I was 15!

Here we are, way back then...look how young, look how how SKINNY we both are!

I just realized today I have known (and been in love with him) for almost half of my life. Rest assured, we have had our ups and downs in all that time and we have both made it difficult (at times) to keep holding on. But we did and here we are 13 years later.

When I think of our early years, it usually makes me laugh because of how crazy it all was. But it also makes me feel incredibly proud and lucky at how we made it all the way through all the junk and came out on top.

Our relationship, like many other couples who met very young in life, has a different dynamic. We are literally grew up together. We learned, at an early age, the importance of compromise, communication and giving in our relationship. Not to say that we were/are always good at it but we tried/try.

This song on the radio right now by Taylor Swift takes me right back to that year when J and I met, some of it before and some it after...

"Then your on your very first date and he's got a car and you're feeling like flyin'. And your momma's waiting up and you're thinkin' he's the one and your dancing round the room when the night ends."

(make sure to pause the cherry tunes at the bottom of the blog so you don't get double music)

"Back then I swore I was gonna marry him someday..."

Carly

tea time - san antonio kids photography

2009-09-17T10:46:00.004-05:00

I, by nature, am not a very good verbal communicator of feelings, I have always been a writer. Even if my writing is not the most eloquent, I have always felt that I can express myself better via the written word rather than saying it out loud.

On Tuesday, I was able to spend my lunch hour with my two favorite little people, my nieces S & P. I know (to those who have seen us with them) it is more than apparent that we (Joe and I) are IN LOVE with them! When I think of how much they mean to me, I can only imagine what it will feel like to have my own children. My heart is completely FULL when I think of them and especially when I am able to spend time with them.

At lunch, P is sitting next to me at the table and out of nowhere, starts touching my face and hugging me while saying "Sweet Girl" which is one of my many names for her. Candice and I cracked up laughing to tears. It was so funny at the time and I hated to laugh because it was so special. It is definitely a moment I may never forget, that she understands and reciprocates the love that I have for her.

I felt that I should write about this because I know that this blog will serve as a "memory book, if you will, in future years and I hope that someday my nieces and my own children will be able to look back at stories and pictures and remember.

All that to say, a few weeks ago, mom and I created a memory with the girls while keeping them at her house one afternoon. We set up a tea party in the backyard and the girls had a blast eating their cookies and drinking their "tea" (milk). S doesn't quite drink out of a cup yet so she was just pouring the milk down her shirt and trying to drink the milk using only her mouth (no hands). Here are the pics....enjoy.

Look, no hands!

I love how she has her feet propped up on the table...

Playtime!

Carly

the ericksons-austin family photography

2009-09-10T13:27:00.004-05:00

I can't stress enough how much I adore this family...you may remember them from here.

C is so photogenic, happy and energetic which is not surprising considering how great her parents are.

Our session was in honor of C's 1st birthday!

Here she is saying "I'm ONE!"

Favorite! I just love the color in this one. P did a great job of picking C's outfit! Isn't it adorable?

Checkin' out the peacocks...too bad we couldn't get them to flare up.

How cute is this bathing suit! C had a pool party so P wanted her to model her swimwear and "model it" she did.

Carly

the dyllas - san antonio family photography

2009-09-07T16:02:00.004-05:00

The Dyllas live on beautiful piece of property just north of San Antonio which made an awesome backdrop for their family session.

Their little man, C, is full of energy...

and was happy to "pose" for me while he played on the trampoline.

Favorite!

Thanks Dyllas for being laid back and open to some of my "weird" ideas. The drainage pipe actually turned out really cool! It was worth the snake risk!

Carly

from jamaica, with love - Austin Photography

2009-09-03T17:44:00.003-05:00

Finally, some pictures of our trip to Jamaica.

Exiting the Montego Bay Airport on our way to Ocho Rios.

One of the resort's pools

The view of the beach from the pool

The first day we were there it rained off and on all day but we loved it because we haven't seen rain in Austin in months!

Us, looking a little red after the first day. Who knew you could get such a good tan in the rain...

J relaxing in our poolside cabana

random...I just like this picture

Sunset from our room

Evening Entertainment

Date night at the restaurant on the pier

Cherry Blossom has been busy, busy, busy since we got back from vacation. I still have holiday appointments available and have a "Holiday Special" for existing clients.

Email me if you want details. carly@cherrybphotography.com

Carly

the buckleys

2009-08-16T22:15:00.003-05:00

This is Miss E...

Her eyes, aren't they the most beautiful thing?

E was not up for a photo session that day and it didn't help that it was 100 degrees at 9:30 in the morning so we are going to have a "redo" session very soon. Fortunately, we were able to sneak in a few good shots.

There's a smile!

I am booking up fast through September so please remember to get on the calendar for October/November for family holiday sessions.

carly@cherrybphotography.com

Carly

one BIG post

2009-08-02T15:45:00.004-05:00

So you probably thought that I had stopped blogging all together because it had been so long since I updated. NO WAY!

My real job (the one that pays the bills) has been keeping me VERY busy the last few months but I can breathe again so hopefully I am back to more frequent postings.

Last post, I left off in May with my brother's graduation. I have decided to just update the whole summer up until now in one big post!

Joseph's company hosted a dinner party on a boat on Lake Austin.

The main attraction were the bats who come out from under the bridge and migrate to Bastrop every night to feed.

Joe's coworker, Laura and her husband were there and we love to hang out with them so we had a great time.

He's keeping Austin weird!

At the end of June, we all rented a pontoon boat and cruised Lake Travis for the day.

Our fearless driver...safely captaining our boat at speeds up to 10 mph.

I was a lobster by the end of the afternoon when I met my good friends from San Antonio in downtown Austin. They were here for a no husbands/no kids, girls only weekend. We had a great time catching up.

We decided to pave the circle on our driveway. When we moved in, it hadn't been finished-out and it made a mess every time it rained. We love the new addition as it definitely adds curb appeal to the house.

We've had a great summer and we have enjoyed the company of good friends and family!

The Gillenwater girls playing at our house in the sprinkler...

P&S bathtime...I guess they like Austin water. I think it tastes like dirt but they couldn't get enough! :)

Random summer picture alert!

On Wednesday we leave for our long anticipated and much deserved vacation to Jamaica.

I am also booking for a Fall & Holiday portrait sessions, so get in early if you are interested.

Email me at carly@cherrybphotography.com or visit the website and fill out the information form.

Carly

the top of the ladder

2009-07-12T14:54:00.004-05:00

"All that stands between the graduate and the top of the ladder, is the ladder." - Unknown

My little "nuttie-tuttie" graduated from high school in June. He will be attending Carnegie Mellon in the fall so we celebrated (with hundreds of his closest friends) "Texas Style" at Floore Country Store at the end of May.

Here are some pics from the event... I'm catching up, I'm now only a month and a half behind on my blogging!

Carly

annapolis

2009-07-03T19:05:00.002-05:00

Hello Strangers!

So here we are almost 2 months later and I am just now going to post about our trip to Annapolis/Washington DC. It was a fabulous trip and and a once in a lifetime experience.

The pictures speak for themselves so I will limit the commentary.

The purpose of the trip was to attend Joseph's cousin's graduation from the US Naval Academy.

The first night we were there, we all went in a limo from Annapolis to DC where we ate dinner and were able to see the Lincoln Memorial at night.

The next morning was the graduation. President Obama was the commencement speaker.

This is the graduate. She is an unbelievably inspiring woman.

Annapolis

Check mark to the "bucket list". According to several internet sites, this restaurant, Cantler's, is considered one of the 10 places you should eat before you die.

The next day was spent touring DC.

It was Memorial Day weekend and there were thousands of bikes in the city for the bike rally.

I'll be back soon with more of what we have been up to the last two months...

Carly

the collins

2009-06-14T20:53:00.003-05:00

Between all of our May travels I had the privilege of photographing the Collins family. We shot at J's parents' house in Spring Branch which was a beautiful place. C & C were so good and both smiled for their family shots like champs! Check out the pics below...love it!

look at those eyes!

This might be one of my all-time faves! Pure Joy!...and look at those eyelashes!

Sugar!

We waited until the end of the shoot for this one and C had a blast splashing in the pool.

Annapolis/Washington pics and more videos next...

Carly

annapolis videos

2009-06-05T08:00:00.001-05:00

Here are three videos from the U.S. Naval Academy Graduation.. very cool!

You will have to go to the bottom of the blog and pause the music to be able to hear the videos.

The President's Entrance...

The President welcoming...

The Marine Oath...

Carly

i'm back

2009-06-03T22:24:00.002-05:00

for today at least...

I cannot tell you how glad I am that the month of May is over! As much as we enjoyed all of the events and spending time with family and friends, we are ready to get back to normal life here in Austin.

So to start the recap of the month, below are pics from my sister's college graduation. She graduated from A&M Galveston on Saturday morning so Jason, Joseph and I drove down on Friday night. My Dad rented a house so it was nice that we were all together and could feel somewhat like home.

After the graduation on Saturday morning, we had a seafood lunch and headed to the beach for the rest of the afternoon. It was a great day!

I left a piece of the tripod at the house so here is our picture sing the makeshift tripod (a bucket and rock) and the self-timer. Sorry Cheyanne...we should have tried that one more time.

J looks really goofy (a face only a wife could love)...Can you tell the sun was bright that day?

Sisters!

Next up, pics from our trip to Annapolis & D.C. on Memorial weekend!

Carly

where in the world?

2009-05-25T21:38:00.002-05:00

I am so behind on posting, it's a cryin' shame!

May has been busy with graduations and graduation parties. Two weekends ago, we celebrated J's cousin's UTSA graduation in San Antonio, last weekend my sister's A&M Galveston graduation and most recently, Joe's cousin's graduation from the Naval Academy which we traveled to Annapolis, MD for.

I will post pics from the events soon but my "real" job will have to have my undivided attention this week...

Carly

the clinkenbeards

2009-05-13T20:23:00.003-05:00

Say hello to the Clinks...C, A and "hipster-baby" J.

I have to say...this was my favorite shoot of all time. We started early in the morning downtown at Republic Square Park. From there, J had a wardrobe change and we headed across the street and played in the remnants of the Austin Earth Day Festival.

Here comes the fun...

Favorite! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!

Other Favorite...

I have never edited so fast. I was so excited to work on these that I immediately sat down and got to work the minute I got home and spent all day trying to get them just right.

Thank you so much C & A for being so open and creative...I hope you enjoyed the session (and the final result) as much as I did.

This weekend, my sister graduates from A&M Galveston and then on to the beach afterwards. I can't wait to soak up the sun. Will post pics from the big event next week...

Carly

the hustons

2009-05-06T18:49:00.003-05:00

Here are the pics from a shoot I did a couple of weekends ago...

R picked out the location in Round Rock and it was fabulous! D is just starting to walk and F is full of great energy which made it really fun. The bubbles were a big hit also.

Bear Hug!

Future model? I think maybe...

I'm pretty booked in May with photoshoots and family obligations but I am still open for bookings so if you are interested and you are in Austin, San Antonio or surrounding areas, please email me at carly@cherrybphotography.com

Carly

l & l

2009-05-02T20:09:00.003-05:00

This is L & L.

They are two very smart little boys and had me all figured out at first glance. Chatting it up, doing goofy things, parents nudges, they wouldn't/couldn't be swayed. Steadfast at just looking at the crazy girl with the camera as if she were just...well, weird. I don't blame them, I can be a bit odd and especially when I have the camera right in their face.

So, we had to get creative. You remember the Texas, Trash and Treasures shoot? Their grandparents own it. And do you also remember the green petticoat? Well, you won't see it in any of these pictures but once we stuck them both inside the green petticoat together, all was fun and games and we got some great shots! Dad was a little concerned. I reassured him that I could easily crop it out and I did....on some. :)

Carly

what's your play - no. 43

2009-05-01T17:59:00.002-05:00

Laura's OOC pic:

With Edits:

Carly

the big sixtieth

2009-04-29T22:06:00.003-05:00

Recently we celebrated my dad's 60th at the lakehouse. We were joined by lots of family and friends.

Here are the pics from the event...I always end up taking lots of the girls and not a whole lot of the other stuff going on but that's because they are just too cute!

The Cake. Nothing beats my Nanny's baking.

We literally put 60 candles on the cake and lit every-single-one!

And let's begin...

Here we go...

Almost there...

All 60 lit...

And blow them ALL out. He couldn't have done it without P's help...

Carly

BIG news!!!!

2009-04-27T19:51:00.008-05:00

I am so proud and excited to announce that Phase II of "The Plan" is complete!

Cherry Blossom Photography: The Website

The concept has been in the works for a while but for the last few weeks, I have been designing it and getting it ready for the big debut! Visit and let me know what you think.

Please continue to visit the blog for shoot posts and other news but keep the website in your favorites as it will be updated regularly and refer it to your friends.

For future shoots, the site has a proofing gallery where you can view pics from your shoot, order a CD or individual, archival-quality, prints. Clients will receive a custom password in order to access the proofs and share with friends and family.

Once again, thanks to everyone, especially my wonderful husband who has been nothing but supportive, patient and helpful during this process.

Carly

some things never change

2009-04-26T22:44:00.001-05:00

April 2008

April 2009

Carly

what's your play - no. 42

2009-04-24T13:09:00.001-05:00

OOC from Laura at Dolce Pics

My edited version:

Carly

easter 2009

2009-04-21T13:10:00.005-05:00

We spent Easter in San Antonio. After church and lunch on Sunday, the girls had an Easter Egg Hunt. it is so fun because both of them are now old enough to hunt the eggs. Last year, S was just a "leetle" thing and now she is walking and was very interested in hunting the eggs.

P and Joseph had fun playing with sunglasses...

Gig 'Em (look closely and you can see P's thumb sticking up)

This is P's good friend, I. He joined the girls in the hunt. He also thinks sunglasses are the coolest.

This is N. He is just a few weeks old. He'll be in on the fun next year for sure!

The Frankenstein Walk

Yes, the sunglasses were a hit...good job Nana!

Sharing

lovin' him some chocolate

Sisters

Nana, I think it may be time for a new slide, P's feet almost reach the bottom without even having to slide.

We celebrated my dad's 60th in a big way this weekend. Stay tuned for pics.

Carly

phase ii

2009-04-16T17:31:00.003-05:00

Last year about this time, I started the blog with this post. Thanks to all my faithful friends and family, the business has really taken off...

I am now proud & excited to reveal the second phase of the Cherry Blossom "Business Plan" (if you will), the Cherry Blossom Photography Logo!

My sister-in-laws brother is a fabulous graphic artist. You can check out his work here: Livingstone Designs.

More exciting news to come...

Carly

texas trash & treasures

2009-04-16T16:37:00.004-05:00

I did my first commercial shoot last week and it was a blast! I had so much fun with these and challenged myself with color...

Texas Trash & Treasures is opening a store in Carmine, Texas in October and needed some shots for their website. You can also find them this weekend at the Chappell Hill Bluebonnet Festival

Check out their website: Texas Rust

Real or Fake? I'm not going to give away the secret...

It was at least 90 degrees that day...and then 65 the next (only in Texas)

Stay tuned for pics from the family session...

Carly

changes

2009-04-10T19:31:00.004-05:00

Big changes are coming to Cherry Blossom. Stay tuned in the next few weeks...

On another note, yesterday I did my first commercial shoot in Bastrop. It was crazy fun! I haven't even started editing but stay tuned for the hippy-chic pics!

Carly

april dashboard

2009-04-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

I wish I knew how to make this bigger but I have no idea...

This month I vow to step up the workout regime...gotta get ready for afternoon "on a whim" boat rides, Barge Party '09 and of course Jamaica in August.
Bluebonnets are in full bloom here is Central Texas; already have 2 sessions booked specifically for bluebonnets in April. If you are interested in booking a session, get on board quick; I'm not sure how much longer they will stick around. Comment here or send me a message on Facebook.
My dad is hitting the big 60 in April and we are having a small get together/big shindig for him at the lake house. I am very excited to spend the day eating and drinking by the water. Better get a tan before I try and put on shorts.
Next weekend is Easter...I am on pins and needles waiting to spend some time with my munchkins! has it been over a month? WAY too long...We have lots of hugs and kisses stored up for both of them! There is never a shortage of love from Aunt Carly and Uncle CarlyJoe.
Also, it didn't get posted on the board but anyone know where to find a good "Derby Hat"? We are attending the Naval Academy graduation in Annapolis in May and I've been told that it's cool to wear a hat. I'm taking inspiration from the Housewives of OC....maybe a big floppy pink one like Gretchen (just a thought).

Carly