Denise Dupuis Photography

Bring on the Rain

2011-07-10T20:58:00.003-04:00

"And when it rains on your parade, look up rather than down. Without the rain, there would be no rainbow. "
- Gilbert Chersterson

Now Booking 2012 Weddings

2011-05-18T21:05:00.002-04:00

With 2011 wedding season underway, it's time to look ahead to 2012. I'm not one to want to rush things, but if you're considering a 2012 wedding, now's a great time to book!

For Sale

2011-03-05T19:09:00.011-05:00

A. Background Kit, $300
One Photek 12' Portable Background Support System with Bag
One Collapsible Sky Blue/Pink (5'x7') Background
One Westcott Muslin Sheet 10'x12' Background (April Showers - Light Gray/Light Blue)
One Westcott Musiln Sheet 10'x12' Background (Expresso - Tan/Brown)
One Westcott Muslin Sheet 10'x12' Background (Midnight Sky - Dark Gray/Dark Blue

B. Studio Lighting Package, $1500
Two Calumet Travelite 750R Monolights w/Flashtubes, Modeling Lamps, Power Cords and Flashtube Covers
One Calumet Travelite 375R Monolight w/ Flashtube, Modeling Lamp, Power Cord and Flashtube Cover
One Large Carrying Case
Two Sync Cords
Two Calumet 45" Umbrellas with Removeable Black Cover w/ Individual Bags and Case
One Calumet Softbox (Aprox. 36"x28")
One Calumet Softbox (Aprox. 28"x26")
One Gossen Luna Star F2 Light Meter (w/ Incident Diffuser Dome Attachment)
Three Manfroto 367B Basic 9' Light Stands (Black) with Case

C. Boom Rig, $250
One Red Wing Compact Boom Assembly with Weight (Used Only Twice)
One Heavy-Duty C-Stand
Three Locking Wheels

Therese and Wade

2010-11-03T20:46:00.002-04:00

As her sisters stated so eloquently in their joint toast, Therese is a Rock Star from a family of Church Organists who met the love-of-her-life when she found Wade, a fellow rocker from an unlikely place, Northern Maine.

Therese and Wade tied the knot on the rainiest, most blustery day in all of Fall. But, as cliche as it sounds, their smiles lit up the evening and their love truly warmed the hearts of everyone in attendance.

Congratulations, Therese and Wade!

Kelly & Gregory

2010-09-07T06:22:00.002-04:00

Every wedding day requires a lot of planning. Brides often thumb through magazines and clip out dresses and centerpieces even before their beau pops the question. Kelly and Greg's wedding is no exception. Kelly's mom, Karen, "warned" me about this big day a good two years in advance... and it was well worth the wait!

It's hard to pick a favorite moment from Kelly and Greg's special day. It could be the fact that Kelly was absolutely stunning. Or maybe it's the random pup that nearly "did his business" on one one of the groomsmen during the formal pictures? But the rockin' reception is in contention for favorite moment too! No matter what, this wedding will go down as one not to soon forget!

Congratulations Kelly and Greg!

Sarah & Jason

2010-08-11T20:35:00.002-04:00

Sarah said it best when she exclaimed on her wedding day, "How much does God love me!?" As it turns out, lots of people love Sarah... And Jason too.

Love was in the air on the last day of July. It was on the face of every guest, in the songs sung by the groom and his brother, and surely it was evident in the overall feel of the whole, sunny, happy day!

Katie & Brock

2010-07-15T05:51:00.002-04:00

On an island off the Coast of Maine, not too far from where Brock "popped the question", he and Katie said, "I do".

What a joy it was photographing Katie and Brock's special day. The very nature of an island wedding means it's laid-back and fun... And it was. It also means that either as a guest or a vendor, you get a chance to really get to know everyone there... And we did.

From the hilarious groom to the fun and artistic bride, every moment was pure and meaningful and thoroughly enjoyed by all at the Inn on Peaks Island.

Jill & Josh

2010-07-01T19:30:00.002-04:00

Jill & Josh are now back from their romantic Mexican honeymoon, so I thought I'd post a short video of a few of my favorite images from their recent Kennebunk nuptials. Congratulations!

2010

2010-01-13T05:29:00.004-05:00

Happy belated new year! So far, in 2010, I've been busy chatting with wonderful brides (and grooms) about their big days. Brides have been busy booking their dates and clipping images to show me, and I've been scoping out new locations and keeping up with the new trends in photography. It's truly a fun an exciting time of year!

With that said, if you, or someone you know is planning a wedding in 2010, it is time to book your photographer. I know wedding season, for me, is starting early, with my first wedding coming up in May, but dates are booking fast! I only photograph one wedding per weekend, in order to devote my full attention and time to that special couple, so if you have a specific date in mind, it's important to book early... But don't forget to enjoy your engagement too... It goes by so fast!

Happy 2010 lovebirds!

No Ho Ho

2009-11-26T06:25:00.002-05:00

Just a reminder that Santa will not be visiting Denise Dupuis Photography this year. So sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. Have a safe and happy Holiday season!

FALLing in love...

2009-11-15T18:21:00.003-05:00

I believe that Fall is the perfect time of year for a wedding. I'm pretty sure that Angela and Steve, who celebrated their special day on the 6th of November will agree. From the colors at St. Max's to the roaring fire at Camp Ketcha, Fall is the perfect time for FALLing in love!

The Long and Short of It.

2009-09-09T20:05:00.003-04:00

Many of my loyal blog readers and friends knew I was excited for the opportunity to photograph Nicole and Ryan's wedding on Long Island, Maine this August. I was so looking forward to working with this great couple, who I met at another wedding I photographed last year, and anxious to go out to the beautiful, picturesque island. The day, the people and the island did not disappoint.

I hope the images I snapped captured what a laid-back, casual and fun couple (and place) this was. There was no formal dancing, no stuffy hall and no lengthy toasts or introductions... Just Ryan, Nicole and all their friends and family on this special and memorable day... That's the Long (Island) and short of it!

'Gimmie' One Good Reason

2009-08-11T21:18:00.004-04:00

One of the best reasons for family portraits is to welcome a new member to the family. That's why the G. family and I were at the beach at the crack of dawn on a Saturday morning... And of course, to celebrate the 40th wedding anniversary that started it all.

I (Still) Do

2009-08-05T11:42:00.004-04:00

On the evening of their 10th wedding anniversary, Laurie and Peter decided that they (still) want to spend the rest of their lives together. Here are a few of my favorite images from their intimate and romantic vow renewal ceremony on Parson's Beach.

Run, Ryan, Run!

2009-07-29T07:49:00.005-04:00

What a fun time I had with little Ryan and his folks at Bayview! I've been photographing Ry Ry for most of his 4 years now, and it's been so fun to watch him grow! This year, the Maine coast gave Ryan the perfect space to run around from water to rocks to dune grass to log, etc. I hope that I was able to capture his spirit and energy in this special family's session.

My Man Malcom

2009-06-25T21:17:00.002-04:00

Though I'll no longer be accepting new portrait session appointments, there are a few that still dot my appointment book well into the summer, so I'll be sharing them with you when I can.

Just the other day, it was my pleasure to meet Mr. Malcom here in Lyman. Malcom is a handsome guy who loves apples, throwing rocks and running, (yes, running) around his beautiful yard with mom and dad in toe.

This little guy is going to be a big brother soon, so his thoughtful parents wanted to be sure to capture this special time in all of their lives... A time when it was just mom, dad and my man, Malcom.

Happy with scattered laughs...

2009-06-23T22:05:00.002-04:00

The forecast for Sandra and Jim's garden wedding was less than ideal, but this laid-back bride and easy-going groom managed to pull off a sunny feeling afternoon despite the cloudy skies.

The couple, who reside in Arizona, wanted nothing more than a beautiful coastal Maine wedding to showcase Sandra's home state. From the lighthouse cake to the whoopie pie favors, to the unexpected thunderstorm, that's exactly what they got... Welcome to Maine!

Exclusively Weddings...

2009-06-18T22:02:00.003-04:00

I'm excited to announce that Denise Dupuis Photography is now exclusively offering wedding photography!

In addition to allowing me to spend more time with my patient family, offering my services exclusively to brides and grooms, will allow me the luxury of giving each wedding the special attention each of these memorable days deserves.

I'd like to thank each of the WONDERFUL clients who I've worked with over the years whom I now consider friends and ask for your understanding during this time of change. I will, of coarse, be honoring the sessions previously scheduled, but will no longer be accepting new appointments for family portraits, high school senior sessions, headshots, commercial work, etc.

I feel so blessed to have had such a unique, varied and thriving, small business for the past six years and look to the future with optimism and excitement as I turn a page and venture into a whole new chapter of the same, great book...

Jess & Anthony

2009-06-13T17:48:00.003-04:00

If you're a regular blog reader, you know that I feel that every wedding is special. But Jess and Anthony's wedding was just a little "more special" to me.

I feel like I've gotten to know this happy couple so well... first, at their engagement session, complete with the actual surprise engagement, and then at their engagement session to announce their pending nuptials.

The three of us have rolled around in beach sand, driven around town in my van and chatted about this wedding so much, I was actually sad when it was over! Though two years of wedding planning has come to an end for Jess and Anthony, this photographer is so excited to see what comes next for them...

It's Prom Season!

2009-05-27T14:15:00.001-04:00

I was thrilled to photograph Victoria and Ian before they headed off to the MHS prom this weekend. These are a few of my favorite images.

e-mail 411

2009-05-11T05:31:00.002-04:00

Now that Spring is here and we're all slowly coming out of hibernation, I've been bumping into wonderful folks who all seem to be saying the same thing, "We've been trying to get a hold of you...".

My heart sinks every time. I don't want folks (especially valued friends and terrific customers) to think that they're being ignored. The fact is that when Fairpoint purchased Verizon, the transition was anything less than seamless and I was not getting all my e-mail. You may have heard about it on the news. Even when I heard about it, I did not realize the magnitude because I was getting e-mail (though I did not realize I wasn't getting them all).

Long story short (is it too late for that?) it's been a long road of getting the website, the order page and my regular e-mail account changed, synched-up and working together. We've made the switch to Roadrunner and are happy to report that as of last week, it seems as though all the loose ends are now tied up and I'm now receiving e-mail from all those places.

So if you've tried to reach me or place an order, make an appointment, etc and haven't been able to reach me, please try again! And as always, I can also be reached by phone or mail.

Thanks so much for your patience and I look forward to reconnecting with everyone really soon!

207.499.2592
denisedupuis@roadrunner.com

The Early Birdie

2009-04-28T19:10:00.002-04:00

Now that the nice, warm weather is upon us, it's really time to start planning summer portraits. I urge folks to book early every year, but this year it's particularly important.

The 2009 summer season is shaping up to be a busy one with weddings, family reunions and many evening sessions dotting my appointment book already! And with a limited number of sessions this summer, they're sure to book up fast! So if you've been planning to get the family together, have a teen who'll be a high school senior in the fall or have always wanted portraits of the kiddos on the beach, give me a call and let's get it scheduled.

Check out this photoshow of some of the many wonderful folks I had the honor of photographing last year... you might just get some ideas of your own!

Happy Anniversary

2009-04-18T20:37:00.002-04:00

Happy 4oth wedding anniversary Mom & Dad!

Brickstore Museum

2009-04-07T10:39:00.000-04:00

April 11, 2009
Preservation Station! - 10AM to 2PM

Does your portrait of great grandma need some TLC? Could your antique dining room chair use some reupholstering or re-caning? Is your basement full of vinyl records and reel-to-reel home movies that you'd love to save... if only you had something to play them on? Ever wonder how best to frame artwork with an eye toward preservation? Want to bring a faded photo back to life or keep a wedding dress for a future generation? Suspect that your sweltering attic isn't the best place to store all those scrapbooks but you don't know what else to do?

For one day only, the museum's galleries will be transformed into PRESERVATION STATION: an expo of area specialists with advice and services for preserving your treasures. Come with questions, leave with solutions. Your heirlooms are worth preserving--and just may end up in a museum someday! Admission is $5/person and includes access to all the experts, plus entry to the museum's current exhibitions.

Participants areAikman Design; Kevin Byron Photography; Great Works Painting Restoration; Melissa McDougald Conservation & Restoration of Upholstered Furniture; Museum Textile Services; The Old House Parts Company; The Photo Doctor; Red House Custom Picture Framing; Tune Town; Ann Van Deusen Chair Caning; Victorian Lighting Inc.; and Video Creations.

Military Ball

2009-04-04T00:39:00.001-04:00

I had a wonderful time photographing BFF's Victoria and Kayla as they prepared for their NJROTC Military Ball. It was nice to see these hard working girls "let their hair down". I was tired from just this photo session... but the girls then went to dance the rainy night away!

Family Ties

2009-03-18T11:56:00.002-04:00

When Prachant and Ruchi came in around Christmas, I had the pleasure of shooting maternity portraits for them. Just like most new parents, the couple was anxiously preparing for the arrival of their little girl. This weekend, I got to meet their new little bundle of joy and be a part of this new family's first photo session together.

I was tickled pink to meet Malvika and her four-legged "brother". Both were super-photogenic and cooperative. Ruchi brought her mom along too, so we tok the opportunity to get a few shots of all the girls together.

We created the first of what I think will be a long life full of wonderful memories. Congratulations Prashant and Ruchi!

Jinxed

2009-03-09T15:41:00.002-04:00

When I was photographing Paula Robert's beautiful handwoven, silk and wool scarves, table runners and bags this weekend, it was 50 degrees outside and I had the windows open. I remember tying the scarves and arranging them, thinking that it would probably be the last time this winter... and now we have 4 inches of NEW snow on the ground. So sorry to have jinxed us!

Photo 9-1-1

2009-02-28T07:56:00.003-05:00

I'm not a doctor, or a firefighter, or a police officer... I'm a photographer. As a result, the phone doesn't ring for "emergencies" all that often, but yesterday, it did.

One of my wonderful clients, Sue Rioux, a talented artist, needed a few of her giant kaleidoscopes photographed FAST, as she just got the word that they'd be headed off to a museum ASAP. I was more than happy to help out, especially since these bigger-than-normal scopes made for great internal shots too... my favorite!

So, with a little elbow grease and midnight oil and all that jazz, the scopes are ready to continue their journey from Sue's studio, to mine, to where they really belong... a museum for all to enjoy!

We're Baaack!

2009-02-23T21:05:00.002-05:00

We're Baaack from a wonderful and relaxing vacation. Right back to the routine now though, we shoveled snow, Katie had no school, and I met with a lovely bride and groom tonight about their May wedding. It's hard to believe that we'll be taking beautiful wedding images beside blooming flowers in no time. Until then, I'll just have to pull out our pics from Mexico to keep us warm!

Outta Here!

2009-02-13T05:34:00.002-05:00

The Dupuis family is off for a little fun-in-the-sun, so the studio will be closed from Friday, February 13th through Sunday, the 21st.

Have a safe and wonderful week!

O-N-E

2009-02-11T04:49:00.002-05:00

Happy 1st Birthday, Samantha!

It's Headshot Season

2009-02-10T20:45:00.002-05:00

It's headshot time of year at the studio!

Winter seems like the logical time for a lot of businesses to update their headshots for business cards, brochures and promotions. I'm always happy to fire up the studio lights, so that's just fine by me!

This week, I had a blast meeting Jeff and Jason, of Smart Home Solutions in Kennebunk. These guys are so much fun. We HAD to do a few "casual" images to fit their personalities as well as a few "more serious" poses for them to use as well.

While they were here, we even snapped a few of them together... You never know when the need will arise for a business photo... and these guys will be ready!

e-mail woes

2009-02-03T06:53:00.003-05:00

Heard about FairPoint talking over Verizon? Me too. So much for a smooth transition. My e-mail is down.

So, if you've been trying to get a hold of me via everyone's favorite method, e-mail, please be patient. Chanel 13 just quoted Fairpoint as saying, "We're working on it"... so who knows how long that will be!

In the meantime, give me a call!

XOXO

2009-01-28T18:56:00.002-05:00

Valentine's Day is just around the corner. I took a few minutes out of this snowy day to snap a few images of Katie. She's been begging me for weeks, and I don't like to let an opportunity like that slip by!

Sprucing Up

2009-01-23T05:19:00.003-05:00

I always have (if only in my head) a list of "Winter Projects" to accomplish. For some, it's cleaning out the basement, or redecorating a room or catching up on some reading. For me, my winter projects are almost always photo-related! This year, I have a big container of photos from when Katie was a BABY that I've GOT to get into albums.

If your winter projects are photo-related too, why not take a peek at some of those oldies but goodies before you toss them out? Now, we can take those old treasures of the past and spruce them up a bit using technology that our grandparents would have ever conceived of! I thought I'd post a restoration job that I did this week. It's so great to see the faces of my clients when they, well, see the faces of their loved ones! It's also a great way to share those special finds with others. Though you may just have one image, we can create as many or as few as you need to share with the whole family.

So, this winter, as your going through your attics and basements, take a closer look at those treasures you find. A little TLC may be all they need! Don't we ALL need a little sprucing up this winter?

2009-01-20T06:55:00.000-05:00

'What I Want for You — and Every Child
in America'

By President-elect Barack Obama

Publication Date: 01/14/2009

Cover Photo By Kwaku Alston/Corbis
Barack and Michelle Obama with daughters Sasha, 7, and Malia, 10.

Next Tuesday, Barack Obama will be sworn in as our 44th President. On this historic occasion, PARADE asked the President-elect, who is also a devoted family man, to get personal and tell us what he wants for his children. Here, he shares his letter to them.

Dear Malia and Sasha,

I know that you've both had a lot of fun these last two years on the campaign trail, going to picnics and parades and state fairs, eating all sorts of junk food your mother and I probably shouldn't have let you have. But I also know that it hasn't always been easy for you and Mom, and that as excited as you both are about that new puppy, it doesn't make up for all the time we've been apart. I know how much I've missed these past two years, and today I want to tell you a little more about why I decided to take our family on this journey.

When I was a young man, I thought life was all about me-about how I'd make my way in the world, become successful, and get the things I want. But then the two of you came into my world with all your curiosity and mischief and those smiles that never fail to fill my heart and light up my day. And suddenly, all my big plans for myself didn't seem so important anymore. I soon found that the greatest joy in my life was the joy I saw in yours. And I realized that my own life wouldn't count for much unless I was able to ensure that you had every opportunity for happiness and fulfillment in yours. In the end, girls, that's why I ran for President: because of what I want for you and for every child in this nation.

I want all our children to go to schools worthy of their potential-schools that challenge them, inspire them, and instill in them a sense of wonder about the world around them. I want them to have the chance to go to college-even if their parents aren't rich. And I want them to get good jobs: jobs that pay well and give them benefits like health care, jobs that let them spend time with their own kids and retire with dignity.

I want us to push the boundaries of discovery so that you'll live to see new technologies and inventions that improve our lives and make our planet cleaner and safer. And I want us to push our own human boundaries to reach beyond the divides of race and region, gender and religion that keep us from seeing the best in each other.

Sometimes we have to send our young men and women into war and other dangerous situations to protect our country-but when we do, I want to make sure that it is only for a very good reason, that we try our best to settle our differences with others peacefully, and that we do everything possible to keep our servicemen and women safe. And I want every child to understand that the blessings these brave Americans fight for are not free-that with the great privilege of being a citizen of this nation comes great responsibility.

Sasha (l) and Malia Obama at play in New Hampshire in 2007.

Bumper cars at the Iowa State Fair in August 2007.

That was the lesson your grandmother tried to teach me when I was your age, reading me the opening lines of the Declaration of Independence and telling me about the men and women who marched for equality because they believed those words put to paper two centuries ago should mean something.

She helped me understand that America is great not because it is perfect but because it can always be made better-and that the unfinished work of perfecting our union falls to each of us. It's a charge we pass on to our children, coming closer with each new generation to what we know America should be.

I hope both of you will take up that work, righting the wrongs that you see and working to give others the chances you've had. Not just because you have an obligation to give something back to this country that has given our family so much-although you do have that obligation. But because you have an obligation to yourself. Because it is only when you hitch your wagon to something larger than yourself that you will realize your true potential.

These are the things I want for you-to grow up in a world with no limits on your dreams and no achievements beyond your reach, and to grow into compassionate, committed women who will help build that world. And I want every child to have the same chances to learn and dream and grow and thrive that you girls have. That's why I've taken our family on this great adventure.

I am so proud of both of you. I love you more than you can ever know. And I am grateful every day for your patience, poise, grace, and humor as we prepare to start our new life together in the White House.

Love, Dad

The 4th Time's the Charm

2009-01-14T19:30:00.002-05:00

The P. family have been coming to the studio religiously since Rach was just a little one. So when mom, Krista called (I think in October) to schedule their bi-annual session, I had no idea the comedy-of-errors that would have to take place before one of my favorite families would set foot in the studio.

The first call to reschedule came when Rach got a black eye. I can't remember what sport or incident caused the injury, but Krista and I had a good chuckle about how Murphy's law dictated that things like that always happen right before a portrait session. We discussed keeping the session and removing the boo-boo digitally, but with so much time before Chistmas, we thought it best to get Rach all better naturally.

Call two came a bit more reluctantly from Krista. I think it was an e-mail in fact. It started with "You're going to kill me...", resumed with "Nicholas just got a really bad haircut..." and ended somewhere in the "I need to reschedule again" area. There were between ten and twenty "I'm sorry's" in there and an "I promise not to ever reschedule again" if I'm not mistaken. Needless to say, I was happy to accomodate and rescheduled with pleasure as adding hair to a two year old would be quite difficult even for a PhotoShop junkie like myself.

The day of our third rescheduled appointment, I found myself at my home/studio with my parents, in-laws and a neighbor family of five (along with three dogs, two cats, a guinea pig and a bird). It was the big ice storm we had and it seemed like we were the only people for miles with power (though intermittent). I called to check on the P family to see if they too had an ice storm tale of woe, and as luck would have it (bad luck is luck too), they were just returning home from their hotel in order to get clothes to come to the session. There was no way they were going to reschedule again!

Since they had no water, and we had a houseful of refugees, we rescheduled once again. When they were finally in this weekend for their session the frst thing we did was have a good laugh about the broken road that lead us to portrait day. The second thing Krista said is that I had only 30 minutes to capture this year's family treasure... because now, basketball season is in full swing!

Portraits make a great memory, but sometimes there's a great story behind them too. The moral to this story? The fourth time's the charm!

"Scope" This Out

2009-01-12T06:14:00.007-05:00

During the winter months, when we Mainers are all a few pounds heavier, and a bit more pale, the rush of family portraits calms a bit and the studio sees more clients of an inanimate kind.

Sue Rioux, of Sue Rioux Designs usually takes this time to update her website and brochures for her upcoming trade shows. it's fun for me to switch gears and slow down a bit. These beautiful kaleidoscopes don't run around the studio and they didn't just wake up from a nap, so the pace is quite different than photographing a two-year-old, but just as much fun!

Daddy's Little Girl

2009-01-07T15:38:00.006-05:00

It's such a special feeling to follow a couple through some of the most important moments of their lives. I'm thrilled to have been a part of this family's life from the "I dos" to maternity photos to baby Evelyn's first portraits.

Capturing this family's special moments holds an even greater meaning for me because they've been traveling the country for Owen's career in the Navy, yet they always manage to squeeze in portraits into their brief trips home.

Amber was hoping for their first family portrait session, but because of the crazy weather, Owen's flight was delayed and we did a session with just the girls! Even Auntie Sarah came along to help out.

Owen is back on the boat already, and Amber is setteling in to her new home in Hawaii, but together, via the computer, they can view their images of their gorgeous little girl and build a few memories, even from afar.

Once in a while, my job feels really important, this is one of those times. I'm truely honored to hold a small part bringing a proud dad and his little girl together.

Winter Wonderland

2009-01-03T10:31:00.003-05:00

Winter weddings have been much more popular over the last few years. These days, brides are recognizing the uniqueness of Maine in the winter and using the crisp colors and natural beauty our state has to offer to create a gorgeous, formal and special event.

Jason and Jennifer really took their winter wedding to a whole new and creative level. From hanging snowflakes from the ceiling of the Holiday Inn by the Bay to their personalized ice sculpture to the winter blue bridesmaids' dresses.

Even on a chilly winter evening, Jason and Jennifer managed to keep the feeling of the evening so warm and cozy... just like the two of them. Their guests danced the night away as the couple mingled about and made everyone feel right at home.

What a wonderful, winter wonderland wedding!

Happy New Year!

2008-12-28T09:59:00.002-05:00

Here's a quick look back at a few of the many wonderful people I've had the opportunity to work with this year. Here's wishing you and yours a happy and healthy 2009!

Yes, Virginia...

2008-12-22T20:10:00.012-05:00

Eight-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York's Sun in 1897. The work of veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history's most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps. This article has special meaning for the Dupuis Family this year. Merry Christmas to you all! Read on...

"DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old.
"Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.
"Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.'
"Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?

"VIRGINIA O'HANLON.
"115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET."

VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

It's beginning to look a lot like...

2008-12-10T06:27:00.003-05:00

It's beginning to look a lot like CHRISTMAS at Denise Dupuis Photography - Both inside and out!

There's still time to order portraits from your session for that special gift between now and the December 15th deadline. We offer everything from wallet-sized images on up to 20x30 wall portraits and larger. Call or e-mail me soon and we'll wrap up your Christmas shopping fast!

Happy Holidays!

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

2008-12-05T05:59:00.003-05:00

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

Free Portrait with Santa
Saturday, December 6th
9AM - 1PM
No Appointment Needed

Denise Dupuis Photography
279 Goodwins Mills Rd (Rt 35)
Lyman, Maine

FMI: 499-2592

Kissing Cousins

2008-12-03T10:46:00.001-05:00

Holme for the Hoidays

2008-12-02T04:17:00.003-05:00

Bob, Nina, Robby and Trenton were all recently home for the Thanksgiving Holiday... a rare treat now that the boys are getting older and everyone is so busy. That's why it was so important to Nina that she get a family portrait taken... While the gang, (even the pup, Roxy) was all under one roof.

I was so glad that this fun bunch took time out from their busy schedules to squeeze a session in between a family wedding, Thanksgiving, etc. Because we've all heard that there's no place like home for the Holidays, but unless you've actually had family be away, you don't realize how true that is.

All I Want for Christmas...

2008-12-01T05:21:00.003-05:00

Prashant and Ruchi have already received the only gift they wanted this year. On Friday (less than one week after these portraits were taken) this new mom and dad welcomed baby girl Malvika into their lives and onto Santa's "nice" list.

As Ruchi recovers from delivery surrounded by loved ones from far away and the new little family settles in to a different routine, (or no routine as the case may be) it makes us think what's really important during this season... family.

Congratulations!

Tis The Season

2008-11-29T09:43:00.002-05:00

We still haven't finished the Thanksgiving turkey leftovers yet, but it's definitely time to start thinking ahead towards Christmas.

Our 5th annual FREE Portrait with Santa promotion is scheduled for Saturday, December 6th from 9-1. There's no appointment needed, just bring the gang down between those hours.

Like in years past, our Santa portraits are way more laid back than those at the mall or other places. No stress here! Just come hang out with the big guy, sit on his lap if you'd like, but we love it when the kiddos hug him, dance with him and squeeze him the best!

Something a little different this year... All images from this event will be available for viewing on-line starting Monday, the 8th. There, moms, dads, aunts and grammies can view your portraits, choose your one free 4x6 print and order more if they'd like (we offer reprints, enlargements and even custom Christmas cards at a discounted rate for this event only). All orders placed by December 15 WILL be ready before Christmas!

Here's a look back at a hand-full of images from LAST YEAR'S Santa Event!

Cheeks!

2008-11-25T06:04:00.003-05:00

This is a first for me...a blog about cheeks... But how could I resist?

My session with Brady and Ali last week went in several different directions. We did some traditional, formal-type Christmas portraits of this brother/sister duo, then a fun high-key set with bare feet and white t-shirts (my favorite combination). But no matter what the outfits or what the poses, their "cheekies" stole the shot!

Worth the Wait

2008-11-24T05:13:00.003-05:00

I've been fortunate to have been photographing this beautiful family since the very day it began... Lorie and Doug's wedding, 11 years ago. Now, with two gorgeous daughters, Doug's successful business and four very busy schedules, Lorie makes her Christmas portrait session a year in advance! So here I sit, blogging about this year's session and I can already hardly wait for next year... and it's like that every time! Lorie always comes in with great ideas, smiling daughters and a little patience too, so every year, it's always well worth the wait!

Guys and Dolls

2008-11-23T07:51:00.002-05:00

If you're a loyal blog reader, you may recall when I posted Carmen and David's engagement portraits and romantic love story here last Spring. They promised lots of surprises for their guests and I on their special day, and earlier this month, they delivered!

Carmen and David are a fun and creative couple and their wedding fell right in line with that... everything from the 1920's themed wedding attire to the tommy-guns the boys carried to the pistols the gals had strapped to their thighs...not to mention the hats and boas as favors for the guests...every detail was unique and special!

Every guy and doll in the joint had a wonderful time on this timeless day!

Little Miss Olivia

2008-11-22T06:19:00.004-05:00

Oh Miss Olivia was full of smiles,
Mom's arms were full of clothes.
While dad just stood there aimlessly
And tried hard not to doze.

First we tried out this pose,
Then quick...moved on to that.
Let's do one of these like this,
Then one without the hat!

Now turn and smile and look this way,
Then sit and look above.
Cause Christmas comes just once a year
and you, our dear are LOVED!

Wraskly Wabbit

2008-11-21T06:03:00.004-05:00

Last year, Scott and Christina must have had to explain to all their family and friends why their beautiful daughter, Abigail was seemingly glued to a rockinghorse in nearly all her Holiday portraits.

This time however, with another year of life, love and portrait sessions under her belt, Miss Abigail was all about having her portrait taken! She spun, she sat, she laughed, she wiggled, but she did NOT rock on the horse (Well, just for a minute). What a big girl!

Of coarse, there are a few images that include her favorite "wabbit", but beggars can't be choosers. Maybe next year, Abigail's choice accessory will be a cell phone! It's so fun to watch them grow!

Peanut Butter

2008-11-20T04:38:00.007-05:00

Photography and framing are like peanut butter and jelly... you could have one without the other... but boy, they sure go good together!

Well, meet my peanut butter, Erin Watkinson. Erin is the owner of and Certified Picture Framer at Red House Custom Picture Framing in West Kennebunk. If you've been to my studio in the past 5 years, you've seen her beautiful craftsmanship on my own walls, and a few of you have used her expertise in design and conservation yourself. I know some of my clients have raved that they've found her standing in their livingrooms measuring and snapping digital images of their space one day and then back there to personally and professionally hang their family heirloom above the mantle once it's framed.

Erin was in the studio yesterday for a headshot for her new website, www.redhousepictureframing.com, and the next thing I know, the website is up and running already! That's why Erin is the peanut butter... she's that good!

WRAP Up Your Holiday Shopping

2008-11-18T06:29:00.003-05:00

Gallery Wraps are a beautiful and timeless way to "wrap-up" your Holiday shopping. Call us today to order this unique gift that will quickly become a family treasure.

The Perfect Gift

2008-11-15T09:01:00.002-05:00

During these tough economic times, I'm finding that folks are being very discriminating about the gifts they buy. I don't think people are going to run to the mall to pick up a sweater at the last minute this year. I think that when times are tougher, like now, people (and gifts) become more thoughtful, more unique and very special. That's why I think that photographs, and photo-related gifts will become a staple under the tree this year.

Because it's not a last-minute gift idea, I thought I'd remind everyone nice and early about one such form of thoughtfulness. What mom or grandmother wouldn't LOVE to wear the special kiddos in her life close to her all the time?

The jewelry we offer is 24k gold or sterling silver...very high quality. And the image is etched right into the piece, so she can wear her gift in the shower, etc. Give me a call or shoot me an e-mail if you're interested in seeing the entire line!

Holiday Cards

2008-11-10T22:00:00.004-05:00

Personally, I start thinking about our family's Holiday card about a year in advance...but I know I'm in the minority. For those of you that are "normal", you've probably just started preparing your Thanksgiving guest list, never mind the internal debate between wreaths vs. snowmen accents... but around here, it's never too soon to order your Holiday cards. You can even leave the tough part up to us!

Even summer portraits make for beautiful winter cards. Pick a favorite or two and give us a call. Each card is custom designed around your images. You can add a message of any length and make it as personal as you wish. Your cards will be gorgeous and unique and most importantly, crossed off your to-do-list.

Order your cards (any size/quantity) before Thanksgiving Day and receive 10% off when you mention this blog!

Be Yourself

2008-11-07T19:23:00.005-05:00

"Be yourself" is good advice on any day, but a great idea when having your family portraits taken. Thankfully, Maureen and Mike heeded this sometimes cliche saying when I recently met them at the Monastery in Kennebunk for a session.

The four McEnaney kiddos are so wonderfully carefree... it would have been a shame to have them cooped-up in the small studio in matching, freshly ironed clothing. I LOVE how mom and dad were so relaxed and let the kids run and be themselves. I think three of the four kids had grass stains on their knees about five minutes in... isn't that great?

Someday, when Ian is a banker or Hazel is married with four children of her own, Maureen and Mike will be able to look back and remember (like they can forget) when they were just so little without a care in the world!

Stinky Feet and a Soccer Ball

2008-11-06T20:43:00.002-05:00

Now that I have your attention, you may be wondering what stinky feet and a soccer ball have in common? Well, they are both secret weapons in getting new big-brother Ethan to smile.

Just a few months ago, Ethan and his parents were in the studio, anxiously awaiting the arrival of baby Chloe. Now that Chloe is finally here, the gang came back for some family shots... and I'm so glad they did.

Ethan was so cute last time, kissing his mom's belly and "listening" to his sister move around in there. Even though he couldn't see her yet, we could tell that he was going to be a great big brother. Now that Chloe is a little more "real" for Ethan, it was a riot seeing him smell her "stinky feet" and belly laugh like crazy. It won't be long before Chloe either laughs along or turns the tables on Ethan, but for now, Chloe was content to be the punchline to all of Ethan's jokes.

When the feet smelling got old, we turned to the tried and true soccer ball games. There's absolutely no room in the studio for dad, Donaldo to do his fancy footwork, but just enough room for a few laughs when the ball bumps the silly photographer. It's worth all the stinky feet and soccer balls in the world to see this little guy smile!

I Do

2008-11-05T14:56:00.003-05:00

You may remember Melissa-Jo and Rob from an engagement blog I did this summer. Well, their special day finally came when they tied-the-knot recently at Southern Maine Community College's McKernan Center. The same lighthouse that overlooked their engagement session also stood guard over their beautiful seaside ceremony.

I feel like I've really gotten to know Melissa-Jo and Rob well since we first met at their wedding consultation over a year ago. They are a beautiful couple who have already learned that the secret to a happy life together is laughter. Because of that and their obvious love for each other... it's clear to me why they said "I do."

Home Is Where the FUN Is

2008-11-04T21:18:00.005-05:00

Home is Where the fun is for the Murphy family, so when I was commissioned to capture their yearly portraits, it made perfect sense that home is exactly where the session should take place.

Jillian and Tenley felt comfortable in their back yard, showing off their favorite climbing tree, a pile of leaves perfect for jumping in and a make-shift sheet ghost that hung from a tree limb in the front yard, all great backgrounds for natural portraits.

Special thanks to Tim and Karen for letting me pop in on them on a busy weekend morning. I think we'll be hard pressed to find a better spot than this next year!

Election Day

2008-11-04T05:31:00.004-05:00

What a great country we live in, really.

I hope that there ARE long lines at the polls today... there should be! Each one of us is being asked where our tax money should go and who we want to be our next President... Little old us... that's a big responsibility!

No matter what your political views or party, I hope you make time to go vote today!

Happy Halloween

2008-10-30T07:50:00.005-04:00

To all the ghosts, goblins, super-heros and princesses out there... Happy Halloween! Have fun and be safe!

The Floyd Family

2008-10-29T14:00:00.003-04:00

The University of New England is still one of my favorite locations...especially in the fall, so when the Floyd family met me there for a session, it was bound to be a fun time. I think the three kiddos had fun too. We played in boats, climbed some rocks and threw a few leaves around too... all while snapping away! I love it when I can just let kids be kids. You get the best images that way!

Meet Meryl

2008-10-26T20:57:00.004-04:00

The last time I had the pleasure of photographing Nicole and Ryan, we went to the beach with their 11 year old Springer puppy, Rocco. Well, a lot has changed in this little family since that last session...namely, the arrival of baby Meryl! Congratulations guys, thanks so much for inviting me to share this special time!

Brooke and Jason

2008-10-22T17:13:00.003-04:00

I recently had the pleasure of photographing the wedding of Brooke and Jason. Brooke and Jason had been planning the wedding for well over a year and it was great to see all their great ideas come to life. But my favorite of all their great ideas was when Jason brought his project car to the formal picture spot! I think that this image really shows who Jason and Brooke are... a fun, outgoing couple! Congratulations Brooke and Jason!

Fall Family

2008-10-19T22:19:00.002-04:00

Fall is the perfect time to get out and play... and get family portraits taken!

The C. family made it a point to schedule their session in the fall, so we could have a gorgeous foliage background at UNE and so that Derek could get a few shots in for his Senior Portraits as well.

What a fun family this was! The boys came armed with tons of ideas and were really "into" getting pictures taken. Mom and Dad let the boys have fun and just went with it. It made for such a great session!

The gang then "made a night of it" and Dad took everyone out to dinner. I think it's great when memories are made during a portrait session... with a background like this, and a family like that, it's really hard NOT to!

Save the Date

2008-10-17T06:17:00.002-04:00

Take Two

2008-10-12T20:15:00.004-04:00

Anthony and Jess' engagement portrait session officially began over a year ago, when Anthony called with a grand plan. Back then, Anthony came to me with a unique idea and an engagement ring in his pocket. At the specific time in the session that we had predetermined, Anthony would pop-the-question and I'd catch the whole thing on camera. Well, Jess said "Yes!" and the whole thing went off without a hitch.

The other day, Anthony and Jess came in for "take two". Though they got engaged during their first session, one year later, they came back for their actual "engagement pictures". We had so much fun talking about the wedding plans and Anthony in particular was more relaxed the second time around, knowing that the wedding is already scheduled for May (in Jamaica) and there was nothing pressing he had to ask Jess this time!

I always love engagement pictures because I really get to know some great couples. I feel a special connection to Anthony and Jess because with them, I got to do it twice!

Click below to see some images from Anthony and Jess' most recent session...

Fall Is Bittersweet

2008-10-08T14:46:00.004-04:00

Senior portrait season is slowly winding down. I haven't been accepting any new senior appointments for a few weeks now in order to accommodate the sessions that are already booked. It's been a bit crazy, but a lot of fun too.

In the next couple of weeks, I'll be photographing the last of the seniors that currently dot my appointment book. It's bittersweet in so many ways (as I imagine it is for the moms and dads of the seniors). It means that I have another successful season under my belt in a job that I love, but it also means that we all take a giant step forward in growing a little older. The students I photographed this summer and fall will be going off to college, or entering the working world, and will no longer be "kids" any more... what does that make me? Not an adult, I hope!

The above image is from Matt's recent in-studio session. He's a Massabesic High Senior who is a super-fast text message-er (OK, I AM OLD) and has fabulous hair. As we wind down the senior season, I'll miss chatting with students like Matt... but that means Santa is coming soon, so it's not all bad!

Touching

2008-10-07T22:34:00.004-04:00

The "O" family is expecting their second and last child (According to mom, Sarah). There will never be another time to capture images like these. I find it so touching when families commission me to capture life's most precious moments. There's no bigger compliment.

Diana and Christopher

2008-10-07T07:50:00.002-04:00

If a picture is really worth a thousand words, I'll keep this entry short and sweet. The images of Diana and Christopher's foggy, beautiful, coastal wedding are certainly worth more than anything I could write.

Adventures in Senior Portraits

2008-10-01T19:26:00.002-04:00

I always try to have FUN at any session, but from the very start, Massabesic High Senior, Scott, had me rolling with laughter.

Our adventure started when Scott had "trouble" getting to the studio. Using his teenage instincts, he called me on his cell phone and I was happy to give him a ride to the studio...but that's just the beginning. Our studio shots were fun, but uneventful in comparison to what happened when we went cruisin' around Lyman for some outdoor shots.

Our first stop was a neat spot in Goodwins Mills, right down the road. I was so caught up in what I was doing that I accidentally stepped on part of an electric fence and when I went to walk away my foot got tangled up. Thankfully, it must have been off... no harm done, but we got our first good laugh under our belts.

After that, we went to the nearby Fish and Game. The gate was closed, but I assured Scott that that surely wasn't to keep us out, and we proceeded to walk around the gate and up a hill. As we climbed the hill, or broke in, if you will, we laughed about how odd it was to have a gate that you could just walk around. "Not much of a gate." we joked. That's just about the time we thought that we were probably walking right through poison ivy. "The road less traveled", if you will.

We thought it couldn't get more like a National Lampoon's Senior Session than that, but it wasn't even over yet. We heard gunshots at the Fish and Game (they have shooting ranges there). But since we wern't technically invited guests, we decided to cut it short.

Last stop...a little lake near my house. A long lens and a short distance between the road and Scott meant that I nearly got hit by an oil truck. That's when we called it an afternoon!

Scott was such a good sport. We joked about how awful this would sound when he went home to tell his mom how his portrait session went. And to be honest, it doesn't sound much better on the blog! But Scott nd I know that it was all in good fun, and quite an adventure!

Lucky In Love

2008-09-29T06:11:00.003-04:00

I always have a hard time choosing wedding images to post on the blog. I usually take hundreds of photos, and narrowing it down to five or six is near impossible. Nicole and Graham's wedding is no exception!

For starters, the bride and her attendants were all gorgeous. We started the afternoon by "playing" on the streets of Portland. The girls brought out their shades and strutted their stuff... it was so fun... and unique... not posed at all. That was the spirit of the whole day!

As the ceremony time approached, it became doubtful that this outdoor wedding would remain dry. The clouds rolled in quickly and a rumble of thunder could be heard in the distance, like back-up for the bagpiper.

As luck would have it though, the rain held off. We sped through the "formal" shots and just as Nicole, Graham and I were walking away from the lighthouse, the sky opened up. Luckily, a prepared groomsman was running to meet us with an umbrella! A few umbrella shots, and then that was IT... rain like you've never seen.

The Saltwater Grill was our next stop, so the rain did not dampen anyone's spirits. The guests were all chatting about how lucky Nicole and Graham were, and how perfectly timed the wedding seemed to be with the rain. The foul weather wasn't the only thing perfectly in-sync... Nicole and her bridesmaids wrapped up the party with an awesome dance routine to "Solja Boy".

Just goes to show, that no matter how hard yo plan, you never know what your day will bring. Unless of course, you are lucky in love like Nicole and Graham!

Happy Anniversary...

2008-09-26T06:36:00.002-04:00

...TO US!

My blog has turned into a nice place where I share a little about the lives of those whom I'm commissioned to photograph... a new bride on her wedding day, a couple expecting their first (or fourth) child, a high school senior commemorating the very important age of 18, etc.

Well today I thought I'd take a little spot on the blog for yours truly, to wish my hubby (and I) a happy 11th anniversary. For without his love and support this blog, or this business would not exist and more importantly, neither would our beautiful daughter Katie.

So, happy anniversary, Tom. Thanks for 11 wonderful years of marriage. And yes, this means you're NOT getting a card now!

Location, Location, Location

2008-09-23T23:45:00.004-04:00

The location, or spot where senior portraits are now taken have become just as important and unique as the students themselves. So when Chris, a Biddeford High Senior and golf team captain wanted to go to Dutch Elm Golf Course, (where he also works on the grounds crew) it was obviously a fabulous idea.

Chris would have no doubt done great no matter where we landed for his portrait session, but Dutch Elm was just perfect. Owners, Norm and Elaine Heavey were so accommodating, they even had a golf cart waiting for us when we arrived!

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Nicole

2008-09-22T20:55:00.004-04:00

Catherine McCauley senior, Nicole is another stunning student I had the pleasure of photographing last week. It was so nice of Nicole to "squeeze in" her senior portrait session between a full day of school and SAT prep classes that evening. She's so photogenic though, that getting in lots of great shots was no problem at all... Even with a slight "wardrobe malfunction," (She forgot one of her shirts at home and her dad had to brng it to her all the way from Old Orchard Beach!)

Amanda

2008-09-21T16:59:00.003-04:00

What a treat to see Amanda again! I used to photograph her on the Easter Bunny's lap a loooong time ago, and now, she's just a delightful young woman. I think that shows in her senior portraits.

Right now, Amanda is in her last year at Kennebunk High School, but she has big plans for the future including a career in radiology. Though I think she could be a model if she wanted too... we had so much fun playing at her family's summer home in Cape Porpoise. Some may think it odd that Amanda's family vacations just a few miles from home, but if you saw this location, you'd get the picture!

Amanda will be happy to see that I was actually taking pictures of her during our time together and not just chatting, looking for sea glass, swinging from a tree and having fun.

Thanks Amanda, for the very first piece of sea glass for my brand new collection and for sharing this very special family home with me for the afternoon.

Service Above Self

2008-09-18T06:05:00.003-04:00

I've said it before and I'll say it again... The best part of my job is getting to work with fantastic people!

Meet Christopher. He's a senior at Wells High with a passion for community service. With hundreds of hours under his belt already, Chris plans on taking his love for helping others to even the next level by majoring in community service in college.

As Student Council President, Chris has a busy year ahead of him, but he always finds time for family, friends and volunteering. I'm always proud of young people when they make time to put service above self.

Lucky for me, this selfless senior is pretty darn photogenic too... He just doesn't enjoy walking barefoot into marshes... Right Chris?

Take That, Hannah

2008-09-16T07:18:00.004-04:00

If you've ever had a portrait session with me on a day rain was predicted, you know my philosophy... wait and see. When portraits are concerned, I'll take an overcast sky over a sunny day any time!

But when the Thyng family called me the morning of their shoot to see what I though of the weather forecast, I broke my own rule and suggested we reschedule. After a few hours of phone tag, and me wearing out the Weather Channel's website, the family and I decided to move the session up a bit but still try to get it in in between the projected high winds and rain of Hurricane Hannah.... and I'm so glad we did.

The rain held off until we were driving away, the family was all together and looking great and the skies were just how I like 'em... Take that, Hannah.

Dancing Queen

2008-09-14T20:07:00.003-04:00

As my marathon of High School Seniors continues, I recently had the pleasure of photographing Katie, from Biddeford.

I've photographed Katie and her family before, when she was little, but this day was all about her. Katie is a smart and talented young woman who loves working with children and is a wonderful dancer.

Katie's been dancing most of her life, and I think that that talent really shows in her portraits, even without her fancy wardrobe or dance shoes, her movement, smile and attitude was one of a confident dancer.

Can you believe that this "dancing queen" was nervous before we started? Just goes to show that if you're having fun, everyone can tell!

Aubrey And Her Mommy

2008-09-11T06:22:00.002-04:00

I just love photographing little-ones because it's sometimes such a challenge!

Between the ages of 2 and about 4, kiddos usually have their own agenda and would much rather explore the camera closet, poke through the costumes and outfits or ride the darn rocking horse than stay on the background and say "cheese". I think that that's what makes the images better though.... if sitting still and saying 'cheese" is not your child, than that's not the photo we should get.

Aubrey was the typical, beautiful example of this. Her mom, Jill was a trooper though, and very patient as we "switched things up" every few minutes. We played pirate ship, (don't fall off the ship-background) superstar, (don't fall off the stage - background) and other games that would keep Aubrey interested for a few seconds at a time.

So, if your apprehensive about bringing your toddler in to be photographed, (here or anywhere) don't be. We often have a few tricks up our sleeves to capture the shots. What usually happens, like in this case, is that the little-ones end up capturing our hearts too.

Good-Old-Days

2008-09-08T22:07:00.004-04:00

Somewhere, tucked away in my basement, I have an album full of cherished photos of Tammy... and a few of a cute boy she was quite smitten with... Steve.

Tammy and I were roommates in college, so I've been photographing her for a long time (Photography majors are always looking for willing subjects). Who would have thought that this many years later, Tammy and Steve would still be my "models"? These days though, Tammy makes the trip from New Hampshire, and not from just across the hall, and now, it's not just the girls any more... she insists on bringing that guy she had a first date with back in 1993 (now her hubby)...and their four beautiful children Brandon, Emily, Kiley and Teddy.

I always get nostalgic about our college years whenever I see Tammy. It's fun though to think about her visits now, and how these days, will soon be the good-old-days for our kids.

Congratulations!

2008-09-08T07:25:00.002-04:00

I've photographed Alison since before her her daughter, Laila, was even born. For the past few years, I've photographed the two of them together either at the beach or in-studio. Alison is great about keeping up with portraits and always comes armed with great ideas and a killer smile.

This year, when Alison made an appointment, she told me the great news that she's engaged! Naturally, her fiance, Steve and his son Mike were included in this years photos.

It was so nice to see Alison and Laila again, as always, but it was a thrill to see Alison smiling like I'd never seen before.

Congratulations!

All Grown Up

2008-09-06T11:42:00.004-04:00

It feels like only yesterday that I photographed Samantha's sister's wedding. Back then, she was just a "kid", but we joked about her senior portraits. Well, now it's no joke... Samantha's all-grown-up and she's a senior at Biddeford High School.

You can tell by her photos that Samantha is a fun and athletic gal (she loves tennis). I really enjoyed spending the afternoon with her the other day and catching up on how her mom and gang of many brothers and sisters are doing.

Time flies!

Mike

2008-09-04T14:08:00.002-04:00

Mike, a Thornton Academy High School Senior, came to the studio the other day. I've been "waiting" for Mike since I photographed his sister Rosie's senior portraits a couple years ago. It was nice to catch up with their mom, Chris again and get the scoop on how Rosie is doing in college....but this particular morning belonged to Mike. Chris specifically requested a little "slide show" of Mike's session....she's been waiting two years. So though his session was all about him, this slide show is all for mom!

Pamela and Frankie

2008-09-03T13:10:00.005-04:00

Special is the only word I can use to describe Pamela and Frankie's recent wedding.

Well, adorable is another good word... Pam and Frank's children, Princess Maiea and newborn, Little Frankie were all too cute. Maeia in her flowy pink dress and crown and Frankie in his mini-tuxedo.

I guess I could call it lucky too... it poured all afternoon during their reception (held prior to the ceremony) and then the skies cleared just in time for their romantic sunset service. As the skies cleared, the groom's parents and the best man wandered onto the scene, another lucky moment, as they all got lost on their way to the beach, but made it with a few moments to spare!

Ok, so I guess special isn't the only word I could use to describe this long-awaited day, but it was special to even me... you see, the groom, Frankie is my cousin, who I hadn't seen in nearly 25 years! I was honored to be a part of this SPECIAL day!

Princess Castle

2008-09-01T18:58:00.003-04:00

I always have a great time when I meet a family at the beach, but when the Torstensen gang filed out of their vehicle, I knew that this session would be super-fun! I couldn't believe how adorable the girls were in their hot pink sneakers...then, they changed into little "princess dresses" that sent the cuteness factor through the roof.

Not only were the girls little dolls, and the weather perfect, but we even discovered a sandcastle that seemed to be built just for our two princesses.

In a few weeks, the Torstensen family and I will meet in the studio for some belly portraits (Mom, Leah is having a boy!). Though there won't be any surprise sculptures or pretty sunsets in those photos, they're sure to be C-U-T-E with this growing family in them!

Timeless

2008-08-29T18:48:00.003-04:00

I can clearly remember coming home from college with my updated photography portfolio in my hand. Back then (I feel old) it wasn't a CD or a web-page, but an actual leather book with 15-20 printed images in it of my "best work" inside. Beyond it's distinct smell of fixer and it's impressive size, what I remember the most about that portfolio is what my dad said about it as he flipped through the pages....

There I sat, a recent, excited graduate with tons of student loans to pay and my good-intentioned dad says, "Too bad they're not in color." and "Why isn't anyone looking at you?" Well, it's been a long time since college, but still LOVE black and whites and my favorite images are STILL the ones where people aren't looking at the camera.

Though my dad will probably never understand, I think that Elizabeth and Peter will enjoy these images of their recent wedding. I wanted to capture how much love there was on this special day, as far as I'm concerned, nothing says that better than a gorgeous bride and a happy groom who are not looking at ME... in black and white, of coarse!

Speechless

2008-08-26T22:15:00.004-04:00

It's a good thing that I'm a photographer, and not a writer, because Lauren has me speechless. I've been diligently editing sessions from last week (in order) just waiting for this session to make it to the top of the pile. I knew we got some great images.

A Senior at South Portland High School, Lauren naturally wanted to go to Fort Williams for her Senior Portraits. This spot has quickly turned into one of my favorites.

As I do with all seniors, I had a blast photographing Lauren. She was up for anything and had a great style about her....must be all that softball!

So, I think I'll just let the images speak for themselves...Thanks, Lauren!

49th Anniversary

2008-08-25T16:04:00.004-04:00

Since the 1960's, the Ellero's have been taking their son and two daughters to Goose Rock's beach in the summer. This year, for their 49th wedding anniversary, their children (and grandchildren) took THEM to Goose Rocks for a special anniversary celebration.

Part of their special weekend included family portraits, which I was honored to be a part of. We went right back to the same spot where they've watched their children play for so many years.

Happy 49th anniversary Mr and Mrs Ellero, what a beautiful family you have!

It's a Tough Job

2008-08-25T05:25:00.003-04:00

Don't ever let me tell you that I have a tough job. Though I sometimes get stressed (like this month) because I'm slightly over-booked, my schedule is filled with wonderful people I see each year, and some great new friends too. This past week, along with going to the beach nearly every night to photograph a family or two, handsome, young men dotted my appointment book (to get their senoir pictures done).

It's a tough job, but someone has to do it!

Tiger Pride

2008-08-20T08:30:00.003-04:00

My hubby and I were seniors at Biddeford High School in 1992. Back then, football jersey #74 was worn by our friend, Scott. Today, (even though we never spoke in high school) Tom and I have been married for nearly 11 years, our friend Scott is now Coach Descoteaux, the head football coach and #74 is proudly worn by this BHS senior, Justin.

We've known Justin since he was just a little guy (he and his family used to live above us in a Biddeford apartment when we were just starting out). I was thrilled to see him again and happy to see that he's turned into a polite, smart and athletic young man.

The essence of Tiger Pride, Justin is one of the captains of the football team this year, and a talented and accomplished discus and shot put thrower for the track team. He's looking forward to his senior year and a track-and-field career at UMO after that.

I know Justin will be successful in whatever he does. His sense of humor alone will take him far. It was so fun for me to look back a little, as Justin does nothing but look ahead.

Senior State-of-Mind

2008-08-19T10:47:00.003-04:00

I'm in a senior state-of-mind!

The past two weeks, I've been crazy-busy photographing high school senoirs who are all going back to school soon. With fall sports starting this week, and a lot of students working too, scheduling has been a challenge to say the least. That's why I'm so glad that Andrea, a senior at Bonny Eagle High School, took time out from her busy schedule of serving ice cream and riding horses to hang out with me at UNE last week

Andrea was a pleasure to meet and a lot of fun to work with. In true "girlie" fashion, she brought tons of clothing options and a few ideas too. It's neat to see how boys and girls prepare differently for their senior session. Andrea's mom, who has two sons who've been down this road before, agreed that girls take it very seriously. But that doesn't mean girls can't have FUN!

I'm Happy

2008-08-15T05:21:00.004-04:00

When I started editing the images from my session with 6 month old, Samantha, I knew I wanted to blog about her. But what to say? She's so adorable...and that smile... what angle should I take? Well, this morning I got a lovely e-mail from Sammy's mom that really said it all. When the mom is happy, I'm happy!

Dear Denise, You have done it to me again...so many adorable photos to choose from and me who can't make a decision if my life depended on it! I love them all. I said to myself, I am going to pick the one that shows her personality the most....well, that is all of them! You don't make this easy!!! Next time you can only take 3 photos then I won't have to choose! Did I mention that I love them? ~Michelle

Ry-Ry

2008-08-12T23:11:00.002-04:00

Little Ryan, (His family lovingly calls him Ry-Ry) comes for a "visit" twice a year. His mom, Tracie is so good at making appointments and keeping up-to-date with portraits. Ryan's dad, Jimmie does his part too, taking lots of wonderful photos of him in between sessions.

It's so fun keeping up with Ryan as he grows. Now three years old, his interests include karate and hanging out with his beloved pets. We always play the normal game of peek-a-boo when he comes in, but now, quite the young man, Ryan steels the show and sets the tone. I think that allows us to really capture his natural smile. I hope Jimmie and Tracie agree.

I'm already looking forward to capturing some fun images of Ryan and his family in December!

Elena and Ryan

2008-08-10T06:53:00.003-04:00

I think I may have mentioned a time or two that the reason I love photographing weddings so much is that I get to work with some wonderful people. Well, what an absolute joy it was to photograph Elena and Ryan's wedding!

The bride was stunning, calm and did I mention stunning? The groom, a laid-back, funny, guy who adores his new bride. And the guests? From the bride's mom to the nieces and nephews and even the DJ, everyone was just such a pleasure to work with and a joy to have met.

The marriage of Elena and Ryan was a blending of two families, and not just a union between two people. That was evident at St Andre's Church all the way to the most touching toasts I've ever heard at the reception.

And did I mention that Elena was stunning?

Fort Williams

2008-08-07T17:49:00.003-04:00

South Portland High School Senior, Cassie was so much fun to work with. We headed up to Fort Williams (you can never go wrong there) for her recent portrait session. Though this is a popular spot, one of the reasons I love it there is that you never get the same picture twice. And with Cassie's long hair and her longer legs...these will sure be hard to re-create!

Cousins

2008-08-06T08:35:00.002-04:00

I was so glad when Rose called to schedule this extended family portrait! I've worked with her beautiful little family before, but this time, I got to meet... the cousins!

With the promise of a trip to the Olive Garden afterwards, the kids did a great job hanging out with me at Laurell Hill. We played under the gazebo, ran in the grass, and when things got a little boring, we moved to the "hill" of Laurell Hill and explored that for a while.

Mom dad, Grammy, Grampa and Aunt and Uncle did a nice job too... trustimg that the kids wouldn't roll down the hill and letting them "be themselves" for a few shots. That's so much more fun than the posed ones!

I'm sure the kids will have fun looking back on these images someday when they grow-up. They may all go off and do different things, but they'll always be cousins!

Happy Birthday, Katie!

2008-08-04T06:34:00.004-04:00

On Tuesday, August 5th, my baby (and oldest) will be NINE!

All the things MY mother (who's birthday is on the 7th) are true. I can hear her say "You'll see when you have your own!", "Time flies." and all those sayings really do apply, but I'm enjoying every minute of it!

So, happy birthday, Katie. We love you and are so proud of the sensitive, thoughtful and funny girl you are!

Love, Mommy and Daddy