Captured by Karen: Blog https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog en-us (C) Captured by Karen 2009 - 2017 [email protected] (Captured by Karen) Tue, 16 Nov 2021 17:23:00 GMT Tue, 16 Nov 2021 17:23:00 GMT https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/img/s/v-12/u916147771-o307979209-50.jpg Captured by Karen: Blog https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog 120 80 Laken & Zach | A Fun Engagement Session https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2015/6/laken-zach-a-fun-engagement-session I am so excited I get to photograph Laken & Zach's wedding in August!  We had a fun evening of engagement photos to practice.  Before the session, Laken chose to get her makeup done!  All of her makeup is by Arbonne, a botanically based skincare and nutritional company (which I am an independent consultant for!).  She is wearing the entire Re9 set, CC cream in medium, eyeshadows are petal and titanium, blush is blossom, and lips are rose lipstick and hyacinth lip gloss.  

These two have a super fun relationship which shows up in the images!  I am so glad I've met them and get to work with them as they start their lives together!

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen arbonne cbk engagement grand junction wedding photographer love makeover https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2015/6/laken-zach-a-fun-engagement-session Mon, 29 Jun 2015 23:30:50 GMT
10 Minutes in the Studio https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/5/10-minutes-in-the-studio Business has been kind of slow lately, so I decided to do a really quick session with my daughter.  We went up to my "studio" (which is our bonus room in our house), wrapped her up in some tulle, placed her by the window and started shooting!  We spent at the most, 10 minutes, then she was back outside jumping on her new trampoline!  I can't decide if I like these in color or in black and white, so I'm sharing both.  What do you like better?

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen cbk child grand junction photographer portrait https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/5/10-minutes-in-the-studio Sun, 25 May 2014 17:51:53 GMT
A Cute Little Backyard Wedding! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/5/a-cute-little-backyard-wedding I had the pleasure of photographing a cute little backyard wedding last weekend!  It took place at the bride's childhood home, which is a dome home!  It was a gorgeous day full of amazing people from across the country, lawn games, dinosaurs, guitars, and lots of love!  Thank you Ariane and Brendan for letting me capture your special story, and thank you to Mr. Chepko for all of your hard work! 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen backyard wedding ballons cbk dinosaurs grand junction photographer grand junction wedding photographer guitar love wedding https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/5/a-cute-little-backyard-wedding Sat, 10 May 2014 13:06:21 GMT
Celebrate Mom This Mother's Day! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/5/celebrate-mom-this-mothers-day

Mother's Day Special!!!  Celebrate Mom with an Arbonne makeover that's pure, safe, and beneficial, and get a fun glamour photo session!!  Call or email me for details!!!

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) cbk captured by karen mother's day special Arbonne makeover glamour celebrate https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/5/celebrate-mom-this-mothers-day Fri, 02 May 2014 13:20:33 GMT
Our Sweet German Shepherd, Dyno https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/4/our-sweet-german-shepherd-dyno

I snapped this image of our German Shepherd a few months ago and I finally got around to doing something with it.  This is Dyno, our almost 10 year old gentle giant!

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) german shepherd dog pet captured by Karen cbk eyes https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/4/our-sweet-german-shepherd-dyno Wed, 30 Apr 2014 16:44:20 GMT
Spring Works https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/4/spring-works I thought I'd share a little bit of what I've been working on so far this Spring!  This is a mix/match of seniors, preschoolers, and birthday kiddos!  Enjoy this lovely time of year!  :)

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen cbk child children flowers grand junction photographer portrait seniors spring https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/4/spring-works Mon, 28 Apr 2014 13:20:28 GMT
Congratulations Class of 2014!! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/4/congratulations-class-of-2014 The end of the school year is upon us and I just wanted to send out a quick congratulations to all the graduating seniors that I had the pleasure of working with this year!  I wish you all the success and happiness in the world!  Enjoy your last few weeks of high school!

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen cbk grand junction photographer portrait senior boy senior girl seniors https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/4/congratulations-class-of-2014 Wed, 02 Apr 2014 19:13:16 GMT
Love in the Orchards https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/3/love-in-the-orchards I had the pleasure of capturing a beautiful wedding for Carissa and Matthew last October.  The day took place on the gorgeous peach orchards and farmland at Z's Orchards.

Carissa wanted a 1940's feel to her day, and I think she pulled it off beautifully.  Matthew wore his US Air Force Mess Dress for the occassion.

Thank you so much, Carissa and Matthew for choosing Captured by Karen as your photographer!  I wish you a lifetime of love and happiness!

The beautiful floral arrangements were created by Rosewood Floral.

Carissa's dress is by Maggie Sottero.

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) 1940 Captured by Karen Maggie Sottero Z's Orchrad grand junction photographer grand junction wedding photographer love peach orchard vintage wedding https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/3/love-in-the-orchards Thu, 13 Mar 2014 15:11:48 GMT
A Session With Myself https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/3/a-session-with-myself So I'd like to take a moment and talk about existing in photos.  The other day, I was listening to one of my most favorite photographers, Sue Bryce, teach a class, and she mentioned how important it is to exist in photos - for your children, for those who love you, and for yourself.  This is something I've been thinking a lot about over the past year.  I don't like getting in front of the camera.  At all!  I don't even like looking in the mirror.  But one of her clients she was talking about had just recently  lost her mother to breast cancer.  She, herself, had just been diagnosed with breast cancer.  And she had 5 children.  She didn't have any photos of her mother that she loved and Sue explained how much this woman wished she had a beautiful photo of her mother before she got sick.  This made me think of my own family.  My husband lost his father at the age of 12.  We have 2 decent snap shots of him in our house that we can share with our children. 

Then I started thinking about my daughter and how someday she will be a woman.  I wonder if she will look at herself the same way I look at myself.  Will she want to exist in photos.  Will she be happy and confident enough with the way she looks with all of today's ridiculous standards.  I realized that I can help her by helping myself.  If I exist in photos where I feel good about myself at this age, at this point in my life, then maybe when she's at this same point, she can look at these images of me and she can be brave enough to be in those photos, too.  I would like my future grandchildren to know about me and be able to pass my story along.  I'd prefer to have nice photos passed on rather than ridiculous cell phone pictures.  So, I set up my studio, grabbed my remote, and had a photo session with myself.  Sharing these isn't easy for me, but I feel strongly about the importance of existing in photos.

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) brave Captured by Karen courage existing in photos grand junction photographer portrait self portraits https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/3/a-session-with-myself Wed, 05 Mar 2014 21:02:19 GMT
6 Months https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/3/6-months Just wanted to share a quick post of my beautiful little niece who came to visit me last week!  She's almost ready to sit up by herself and knows how to melt your heart with her pretty little eyes!

 

Happy Little Girl That look!

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen baby expression eyes fine art portrait grand junction photographer portrait https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/3/6-months Mon, 03 Mar 2014 19:54:36 GMT
Featured on Brides Without Borders https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/2/featured-on-brides-without-borders Featured on Brides Without BordersFeatured on Brides Without BordersSee the feature here: :)

If you haven't checked out Brides Without Borders, yet, you are missing out!  They provide images, advice and venue info for destination weddings - really a stunning blog!  I ma honored to have one of my weddings featured!  Go check it out!  :)

 

See the feature here: :)

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) brides without borders featured telluride wedding captured by karen grand junction photographer grand junction wedding photographer telluride wedding photographer https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/2/featured-on-brides-without-borders Wed, 26 Feb 2014 13:52:54 GMT
Mr. & Mrs. Cooper! | Sunlight Mountain Resort Wedding | Captured by Karen https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/1/mr-mrs-cooper-sunlight-mountain-resort-wedding-captured-by-karen Katy and Adam were married this last September at the beautiful Sunlight Mountain Ski Resort in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.  These two enjoy the classic Colorado mountain life that this area has to offer, so getting married there was absolutely perfect!  And gorgeous!  Thank you, Katy & Adam for allowing me to capture your amazing day!

Venue ~ Sunlight Mountain Resort  (I highly recommend this beautiful location!  And the coordinators are great to work with!)

Musicians (they were awesome!) ~ Hell Roaring String Band

Makeup and Hair Artist ~ Sharon at Narcissus Salon

Dress ~ Saja

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen Hell Roaring String Band Narcissus Salon Sunlight Mountain Resort colorado wedding photographer glenwood springs photographer grand junction photographer grand junction wedding photographer love saja wedding https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2014/1/mr-mrs-cooper-sunlight-mountain-resort-wedding-captured-by-karen Mon, 27 Jan 2014 19:28:03 GMT
Jennifer & Matt | Married!! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/12/jennifer-matt-married Jennifer and Matt were married this summer in July in Grand Junction.  They had a beautiful outdoor ceremony and a very fun reception.  It was such a pleasure being a witness and capturing this special day for them!

 

Vendors

Venue ~ Two Rivers Winery and Chateau

Dress ~ Annalise Bridal Boutique

DJ ~ Stewart Cruicshank, Windy City Entertainment

(You can click on the slideshow to view the images individually and pin to your Pinterest boards or share on Facebook!)

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen annalise bridal boutique grand junction photographer love two rivers winery wedding windy city entertainment https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/12/jennifer-matt-married Thu, 19 Dec 2013 18:17:03 GMT
My Family! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/11/my-family

 

I was able to get my boys (husband included) dressed up for a few minutes to let me take some photos of them.  My daughter is always ready to dress up.  Me, too!  I am so thankful for my assistant, Liz, for snapping this shot of us!  We even got the dogs, Dyno & Beulah, to pose!  Some things are meant to be! :)

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) captured by Karen colorado national monument dogs exist in photos family portraits grand junction photographer pets https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/11/my-family Tue, 19 Nov 2013 17:17:53 GMT
My Little Girl! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/11/my-little-girl

 

My daughter and I were looking through some photos from our summer, trying to find one that she wanted to send with a care package for a child she's sponsoring for Operation Christmas Child.  I came upon these and had to share.  I just love these of her!

Thanks for looking! :)

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) black and white captured by Karen child daughter fun grand junction photographer portrait https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/11/my-little-girl Sat, 16 Nov 2013 22:32:31 GMT
Love in Telluride! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/9/love-in-telluride I had an amazing opportunity to photograph a wedding at Alta Lakes in Telluride, Colorado this summer!  It was the absolute most perfect day - the weather cooperated and there was love to be shared by all!  I am so grateful and honored to have been the photographer for April and Allyson on there most special day!

 

Venue ~ Alta Lakes Observatory

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) LGBT alta lakes observatory captured by Karen colorado equality love love is love mountains telluride telluride photographer wedding https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/9/love-in-telluride Wed, 04 Sep 2013 17:27:14 GMT
Surprise! It's a Wedding! | Impromptu 4th of July Wedding https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/7/surprise-its-a-wedding-impromptu-4th-of-july-wedding The other night I was at home enjoying the evening with my family when I got these urgent messages on my phone and my facebook.  My client, Amy, needed to get a hold of me ASAP.  I was worried and immediately called her back.  She explained that she had a big favor to ask - she and her amazing boyfriend, Jeff, had decided to (finally!) get married!  They wanted to do it on July 4th and the courts would be closed - they wanted a very short & sweet, nobody-knows type of wedding and they asked if they could have it at my house and if I could photograph it.  Giddy with excitement, of course I said YES!  I've known Amy since 9th grade - I've been photographing her and her 2 awesome boys for quite a few years now.  I was so happy to hear this news and to be a part of it!

Thank you so much, Amy & Jeff, for letting me be a part of your amazing day!  I think it was absolutely perfect!  Congratulations to you and your amazing families! :)

"4th of July wedding" "grand junction wedding photographer" "captured by karen" "4th of July wedding" "grand junction wedding photographer" "captured by karen" "4th of July wedding" "grand junction wedding photographer" "captured by karen" "4th of July wedding" "grand junction wedding photographer" "captured by karen" "4th of July wedding" "grand junction wedding photographer" "captured by karen" "4th of July wedding" "grand junction wedding photographer" "captured by karen" "4th of July wedding" "grand junction wedding photographer" "captured by karen" "4th of July wedding" "grand junction wedding photographer" "captured by karen" "4th of July wedding" "grand junction wedding photographer" "captured by karen"

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) 4th of July wedding Captured by Karen grand junction wedding photographer love surprise wedding https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/7/surprise-its-a-wedding-impromptu-4th-of-july-wedding Sat, 06 Jul 2013 14:19:23 GMT
A Lovely Vintage Wedding in the Vineyards! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/6/a-lovely-vintage-wedding-in-the-vineyards Vintage Wedding | Palisade, CO

 

I had the pleasure of capturing a beautiful vintage-styled wedding a couple of weeks ago for the lovely bride, Rachel and her groom, Ben.  This wedding had so much detail from dress to the vintage candles.  We couldn't have asked for a more gorgeous day!  A special thanks to Jen Swedhin for being my lovely assistant!

 

Vendors

Venue ~ Amy's Courtyard, Palisade, CO

Dress ~ Claire Pettibone

Makeup Artist ~ Hope Carlton, Perfect Touch Makeup

Band ~ Straygrass bluegrass band

Caterer ~ Berna B's

Hair Artsit ~ Eddie Waldrick, Harrah's Salon

Florist ~ Country Elegance

Wedding Cooridnator ~ Tonja Kueper-Rinaldo, I Design Weddings and Events

Decor ~ Robin Brown, Robin Brown Events

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen amy's courtyard berna b's claire pettibone country elegance eddie waldrick grand junction photographer harrah's salon hope carlton i design weddings and events mount garfield orchards palisade perfect touch makeup robin brown events straygrass vintage wedding https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/6/a-lovely-vintage-wedding-in-the-vineyards Sun, 09 Jun 2013 14:54:32 GMT
High School Seniors! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/5/high-school-seniors Let's Get Ready, Class of 2014!

The school year is almost over and it's time to start thinking about senior photos!  Yearbook deadlines come up quickly and my sessions fill up fast, so be sure to get yours scheduled soon!

senior 2014 "high school" "grand junction senior photographer"

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) 2014 Captured by Karen grand junction photograper high school senior senior photographer senior session seniors https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/5/high-school-seniors Mon, 13 May 2013 13:19:37 GMT
Celebrate Mom! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/4/celebrate-mom Celebrate Mom with Portraits!

Mother's Day is coming up and Captured by Karen will be having a very special portrait series to celebrate!

Plan a day with your mom, or your daughter, or even your sister to treat yourselves to a fabulous makeover and glamorous photo session!

If this sounds like a fabulous time to you, ask me about my gift vouchers - $100 off your session and $100 print credit!  Spots are very limited to please get in touch with me soon!

 

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen child daughter gift grand junction photographer limited makeover mother portrait special voucher https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/4/celebrate-mom Mon, 22 Apr 2013 17:26:01 GMT
Being 2 https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/4/being-2 I love photographing this little family!  I've been capturing Andrea and her husband Calvin for a few years now.  We always have a great time - she's super creative and always has cute coordinating outfits and great props!  Their son, Cason, just turned 2 over the weekend!  He is all boy and his age is very apparent!  He is go go go - such a busy little boy!  This age usually doesn't like to sit still for the camera, let alone look at it and smile.  These images have captured his "little-boy-at-two" personality just perfectly!

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen boy child family grand junction children photographer grand junction family photographer grand junction photographer love portrait two https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/4/being-2 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 16:29:00 GMT
Abstract https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/3/abstract I love abstract art!  I always have, maybe because I've always been such a terrible drawer, but I love creating in abstract.  I have a fabulous lens, which I use now and then, that allows me to create some abstract within my portraits - it's called a Lensbaby - http://www.lensbaby.com .   I thought I'd share some of my favorite captures that I've created over the years.

Ps - I also have some images for sale that include Lensbaby shots - you can check them out here! - http://bit.ly/14nPHtv

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen abstract grand junction photographer lensbaby portrait slideshow https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/3/abstract Sun, 24 Mar 2013 23:04:03 GMT
What I Love About Weddings! (Other than the wedding part!) https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/3/what-i-love-about-weddings-other-than-the-wedding-part Oh how I adore weddings!  I've been involved in the wedding business since I was a kid, and I seriously just love them!  Every wedding is so personal and unique.  Besides the stars of the day, I really enjoy the little things that make up a beautiful wedding.  I thought I'd pull together some of these from my past weddings to share with you all! :)

Location, location location!

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Signs!

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Personal Touch!

DSC01580 IMG_4720 DSC00943 copy DSC06579 DSC06573 DSC01980 copy cbk2729 cake collage Yes, that's a Lego cake with a can of Skyline chili.

Don't I have amazingly creative brides (and grooms ... maybe?)!

I'm really looking forward to all of the wedding bliss that 2013 brings!

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) CMU Captured by Karen Colorado Colorado Mesa University Deadhorse Point Grand Mesa Utah bling brides details grand junction photographer location love personal touch signs weddings https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/3/what-i-love-about-weddings-other-than-the-wedding-part Mon, 11 Mar 2013 00:26:22 GMT
AED - A Non-Photography-Related Post https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/2/aed---a-non-photgraphy-related-post This post is more of a personal post, but I feel very strongly that it needs to be shared, so please bare with me.

One year ago today, my husband, Leo, went into cardiac arrest while at his office.  Leo is a very healthy, young, skinny, and athletic man, so this came to us as a total surprise.  We now believe that it was due to a blood clot from a wrist surgery he had done a week prior.

Many miracles happened that day - the arrest happened in front of another person who immediately dialed 911; there happened to be a police officer nearby who had super-human powers and responded within 26 seconds.  The list goes on.  But what really saved my husband that day was the AED unit that had recently been installed in his office building.

Do you know where the closest AED unit is to you?  Is there even one in your place of work?  I work from my home - I have a fire extinguisher, but I don't have an AED.  My other job at the middle school just put one in last Spring!  These units save lives!  Yes they're expensive and yes they don't get used very often - thank goodness, but when these situations occur they are priceless.

We are very thankful for all the events that took place one year ago today.  I encourage you to look into getting an AED for your office, place of work, or even home.  My husband now has a permanent one in his chest.  I would like to get one in my home for myself and the kids, or any guests.  These emergencies can happen to anyone.

Thank you for reading!  I promise my next post will be more about photography!  Have a fabulously healthy day! :)

 

Photo by Tanya Pearce of Redhawk Photography

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) aed cardiac arrest defibrillator https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/2/aed---a-non-photgraphy-related-post Thu, 21 Feb 2013 14:55:39 GMT
Spring Is In The Air! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/2/spring-is-in-the-air

 

The sun came out today!  I've been wanting to get outside and take some portraits without anyone having to bundle up, and today was the first day of this year to do so!  These are some shots of my daughter. 

I'm planning on a concept shoot for all you lovely ladies in May in honor of Mother's Day!  I have a licensed hair and make-up artist coming in to help compliment your gorgeousnesses (I don't think that's a word!)!  Space will be very limited, so please let me know sooner than later if you're interested in something like this!  I'm thinking mothers, mothers and daughters, sisters, girlfriends, etc.  A grand time will be had by all, plus you get to look your best AND have it captured for all time! :)

Have a great weekend, everyone!

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen captured by karen child concept shoot daughter flowers girl grand junction photographer portrait spring https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/2/spring-is-in-the-air Fri, 01 Feb 2013 23:00:08 GMT
Artistic Portraits https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/1/artistic-portraits Winter is the time of year for family and traditions.  Business slows down for a much needed break.  During this slow period, I get inspired to try new things with my photography.  I love looking at other artists' work on Flickr, 500px or Facebook, and finding amazing creations that inspire me.  I love the editing part of photography - I love to create different feelings with what I have captured in camera.  I recently saw the movie, "Les Miserables," which I loved, and also saw the portraits by Annie Leibovitz.  I instantly fell in love with them, especially the portrait of young Cosette.  So I grabbed my guinea pigs, aka my children, and tried some artistic portraiture.  This is something I would love to offer to my clients!  It's very fulfilling to me from an artistic standpoint and it's something a little different from a normal photo session.

Here is my try at young Cosette.  Some think it looks like the famous Afghan girl portrait from National Geographic.

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen artistic boy child girl grand junction photographer portrait https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2013/1/artistic-portraits Wed, 02 Jan 2013 17:15:58 GMT
Looking Back at 2012 https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/12/looking-back-at-2012 Wow!  2012 is almost over and what an amazing year it has been!  I want to thank you all for your support and business.  I love my job so much and it makes me so happy to be able to capture special moments and relationships for all of you!

I wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, especially all of you celebrating for the first time - baby's first Christmas, newlyweds, etc.  It is such a special time of year and you only get to celebrate the first once!  So here are a few images from the past year of those special folks who are celebrating for the first time!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) 2012 babies captured by Karen couples families first christmas grand junction photographer love merry christmas newborn reflection wedding https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/12/looking-back-at-2012 Fri, 21 Dec 2012 16:45:16 GMT
Meet Pierre https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/12/meet-pierre My family just recently adopted this adorable little kitty!  We have named him Pierre and we are very smitten by him!  He is a great addition to our family!

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) adorable animal black and white captured by Karen cat cuteness feline grand junction photographer kitten pet https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/12/meet-pierre Thu, 13 Dec 2012 23:13:17 GMT
Birthday Boy! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/11/birthday-boy DSC03800 copyDSC03800 copy

 

I love smash-the-cake sessions!  This adorable little guy just turned 1 and I had the opportunity to capture his reaction with his little cupcake!  Handprint on the face - priceless!

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) adorable baby birthday blue child frosting handprint smash the cake https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/11/birthday-boy Tue, 13 Nov 2012 02:19:09 GMT
Welcome Baby Jhett! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/11/welcome-baby-jhett DSC03580 copyDSC03580 copy

 

A quick peek at this beautiful new relationship!  This amazing mom is my brother-in-law's sister and an amazing mom of now 4 kiddos!  Congratulations, Jaida!

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) baby family love mother newborn portrait https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/11/welcome-baby-jhett Tue, 13 Nov 2012 02:10:01 GMT
A Special Bond https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/4/a-special-bond When I met Hayden and Olivia a few weeks ago, I knew there was something special about them immediately.  Hayden was instantly asking me questions and telling me his life story.  Olivia had just woken up from a car trip nap, but quickly warmed up to me.  I took them out and we went for a "scavenger hunt." 

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Once they had their finds, they started interacting with each other.  This brother and sister are old souls.  They have so much love, respect, and understanding for one another.  I asked them to hold hands - no problem!  I asked them to give each other a  little hug - no problem!  Then I asked them to whisper secrets in eachother's ears - again, no problem!  If it were my kids, there would have been whining, crying, and possibly punching.

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We had great conversations and I really enjoyed the company.  Sheree`, you and your husband are amazing parents with amazing children!  I can't wait to work with you all again!  Thank you so much for letting me capture these kiddos - it was very entertaining! ;)

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/4/a-special-bond Wed, 04 Apr 2012 17:48:10 GMT
Elizabeth & Jonathan - An Engagement Session https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/elizabeth-jonathan---an-engagment-session I love love!  And I love working with people who are in love!  A few weeks ago I got to capture an engagement session for Elizabeth and Jonathan.  This couple is just so much fun!  They are funny, down to earth, and so in love!  We started our session on Main Street for some more formal shots.  Then we headed out to CBK headquarters for some pretty outdoorsy natural shots.  The weather was perfect.  We had a slight breeze to bring on the romanceWe had so much fun working together!  A full CBK session results with a lot of images.  I chose 30 of my favorites, which is too many to post here so I created a slideshow for your viewing pleasure!

Liz & Jonathan - I can't wait for your wedding in September!  Time is going to fly, so enjoy every minute!

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Grand Junction engagement love https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/elizabeth-jonathan---an-engagment-session Wed, 28 Mar 2012 14:12:24 GMT
Jessi + Andrew = 3 !! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/jessi-andrew-3 About a year and a half ago I got to shoot this fabulous wedding for a couple of school teachers up on the Grand Mesa.  It was so beautiful and one of the most creative weddings I've ever been to.  Jessi and Andrew were the perfect couple - so in love, so happy, and such beautiful people.

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So a month or so ago, Jessi  & Andrew contacted me for a maternity session!  You can guess how giddy I was!  They had everything very well planned out with lots of creativity, which I just love.  We went to Main Street for a mini-session and let the creative juices flow!  It was a blast and they rocked the session! 

For some of the shots, they wanted to incorporate some letters that spell the baby's name which will be used in his nursery.  Arlo - I just love this name!  It's so unique!  I mentioned to Andrew & Jessi how teachers tend to have unique names for their kids so that they aren't reminded of their students - lol!  That's how my own kids got their names - I was teaching when I had them.

Andrew & Jessi - I am so so happy for you guys and I can't wait to meet your little Arlo!  Thank you so much for letting me capture this special time for you!  Enjoy every minute! :)

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/jessi-andrew-3 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 16:30:50 GMT
Another Fabulous Person Named Marshall! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/another-fabulous-person-named-marshall A few weeks ago  I had the opportunity to do a session with a special 8 year old, Marshall!  I first met Marshall last summer when I got to photograph him with his little brother and his mom, Amy.  It's been such a treat to capture this family because I've known Amy since high school, but I haven't seen her since we were in school.  This session was celebrating Marshall's 8th birthday.  We strolled around Downtown Grand Junction, then had a nice lunch together with Amy's boys and my kiddos!  Thank you, Amy, for another adventure with your boys! :)

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/another-fabulous-person-named-marshall Tue, 27 Mar 2012 16:04:35 GMT
Rewards https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/rewards Last week, my family and I had the privilege and honor of attending the Grand Junction Police Department's Annual Awards Assembly.  What a great experience!  There were so many officers and emergency responders who were honored for the amazing jobs they do.  One award in particular was the reason we were there.

Towards the end of the assembly, Officer Zen (what a cool name!) presented the Life Saving awards.  There were quite a few officers who received this award, which also included a medal.  One story in particular hit home, of course, because it was my husband's story.  I was holding back tears throughout Officer Zen's speech, but I did manage to get a few photos without shaking too much.  I was so honored and proud to attend, and watch Leo stand next to Officer Marshall Dixon as Officer Zen presented the award to him.  I am so grateful and thankful to Officer Dixon!  My kids also were able to attend and witness the celebration.  They got to shake Marshall's hand and thank him properly for saving their dad's life.  We got to meet his family, too!  He has an awesome wife and the cutest little baby boy.  I hope to know them for the rest of our lives.

Thank your for everything, Marshall!  You are a true hero!

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/rewards Sun, 11 Mar 2012 15:41:29 GMT
Many Thanks ... https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/many-thanks---- So many of you know that for the past week my life has been turned upside down.  For those of you who don't know, the morning of February 21st, my husband, Leo, went into cardiac arrest while at work.  We think he had a blood clot from a wrist surgery he had done a week prior to this, because he is a very healthy, thin, athletic, and young man.  Anyhow, his heart stopped for about ten minutes.  There just happened to be a police officer nearby.  There just happened to be a defibrillator in the office.  My husband was shocked 3 times and then began to barely breathe again on his own.  The good news is that he made it!  He is healthy with no brain damage.  He did have to get a permanent defibrillator put in - kind of like a pacemaker.  So I wanted to get some of my thoughts out, and since I have a brand new blog, here they are.

I am so thankful for:

  1. Timing - he wasn't driving, sleeping, or by himself.  This happened in front of another person so he got immediate help.
  2. Mr. Mike Hardy - Mike is the president of my husband's work, Agapito Assoicates.  Mike and my husband were having a conversation when Leo arrested.  He immediately made the right decisions, called 911, and began helping.
  3. Gary - Unfortunately I don't know his last name, but he is another engineer in Leo's office.  It was Gary's idea to get a defibrillator for the office.  Every business should consider investing in one!  Hopefully it will never be needed but when it is needed, it saves lives.
  4. Officer Marshall Dixon - Officer Dixon just happened to be nearby looking for a stolen U-Haul trailer.  Once the call was dispatched it took him 26 seconds to get to my husband and use the office defibrillator.  He went above the call and duty and saved my husband's life.  He is a true hero and I can't wait to meet him in person to thank him properly.
  5. Defibrillators - they save lives!
  6. EMT's - they shocked my husband 2 more times, did CPR which kept the blood flowing through his lifeless body.
  7. St. Mary's Hospital - wonderful staff, technology, facility, ... can't say enough!
  8. Hypothermia Therapy - a newer technology that helps heart & stroke patients have less/no brain damage.
  9. Nurses - all of the nurses who cared for my husband.  They even cared for me and helped me through this in so many ways.  They are genuinely interested in their patients and care deeply for all involved.
  10. Dr. Thomsson - the Intensivist that helped me & Leo while he was in the Cardio Vascular ICU.
  11. Dr. Duffy - the amazing cardiologist who was with Leo from the ER to checkout.
  12. Dr. Garmany - The other amazing cardiologist who put the defibrillator into Leo's chest.
  13. Kelly Clarkson - this may be a little weird, but those of you who know me know that music is a huge part of my life.  Every time I turned my radio on last week, Kelly's song, "What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger" was always on and helped me stay positive.
  14. Facebook - Facebook allowed me to post updates so that I didn't have to make a million phone calls or write a bajillion emails explaining the same thing over and over again.  It also showed me how many people who love me and my husband around the world.  All the comments from my friends, family, and even people I don't know made me feel like they were with me holding my hand as we waited.  Very humbling.
  15. My children's teachers - they have been very supportive with my kids - letting my son call me during the day to check on his dad, letting them write about what was going on and share with the class, helping them make cards and letters for their dad.  It all helped them deal with this very hard to understand disaster.
  16. All my friends, family, and staff & students at Redlands Middle School  - the encouraging words, prayers, and thoughts.  The offers to help, the cookies, meals, flowers, cards, and gifts were so helpful.  They all have inspired me to be a nicer person.

 

This may sound cliche, but please know that life is precious and very short.  Love everyday.  Remember what really matters at the end of the day.  Know that miracles DO happen.

Lastly, I am also very thankful that my husband, Leo, is a fighter, has a strong will, and came back to us.

 

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Photo by Tanya Pearce of Redhawk Photography

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/many-thanks---- Thu, 01 Mar 2012 22:12:26 GMT
Meet Baby Owen! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/meet-baby-owen- I have known Owen's dad since first or second grade.  I was so happy for Omar & his wife Hannah when they announced that their first child had arrived in January and that they wanted me to capture his first photo session!  Owen did such an amazing job posing for me.  He was so sleepy and just went with it.  He loved having his dad comfort him back to sleep in between poses.  Congratulations Omar & Hannah!  You guys make great babies!  Welcome to parenthood!

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen baby family newborn https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/3/meet-baby-owen- Thu, 01 Mar 2012 17:42:09 GMT
So Excited! https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/2/so-excited- So Excited!

Beauty in Death

I feel that exciting times are ahead for me and CBK!  It seems that everything is lining up perfectly.  Next week I get to photograph a new little boy who is the son of a friend I've known since grade school.  I also get to do a maternity session for a former bride & groom of mine!  My favorite lens company (Lensbaby) has come out with a brand new portrait lens.  I have weddings booked for this year.  Zenfolio has added this really great blog feature that is a part of my website.  A client's 4 year old daughter sees me and says, "There's Captured by Karen!"  There are just so many pieces of my life that have finally come together and I'm doing what I should be doing!   I feel like I've come a long way since I started in 2009, as an artist and a businesswoman.  Blogging is new to me, so bare with me!  I'm not much of a writer, but I can appreciate how blogging can connect with my clients/fans/readers.

 

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[email protected] (Captured by Karen) Captured by Karen business future lensbaby https://www.capturedbykarenphoto.com/blog/2012/2/so-excited- Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:46:54 GMT