graffiti - the legal kind

I must have the coolest landlords!  The let me go crazy and graffiti up the side of our building and it's my new favorite background.  After watching many many YouTube tutorials on the art of graffiti, I gave it a try.  It was seriously so much fun!  It turns out that having quality spray paint makes a huge difference.  We've always sought out urban locations with graffiti, however many of those locations are somewhat sketchy and not really places that I want to hang out - especially without Greg! 
Here are a few of images that we've taken with it - maternity, seniors, kids - who's next?!?

The Cutest Little Shop in Peoria

Fun gifts, jewelry and historical surprises all mixed together - meet Relics!  This really is such a cool little shop, unique to Peoria, where you can find the perfect gift for any occasion.  A mix of modern and vintage, this is one of my favorites.  I recently stopped in and was taken by several interesting books (images below.)  Stopping into Relics is a must, hope you get the opportunity soon!
visit Relics website

my wonderful (super silly) husband

In addition to my lenses, lighting equipment, and my all important step stool (very important when you're 5' tall!) my favorite thing to bring to a shoot is my husband (okay, he's not exactly a thing.)  Greg has an amazing way of putting people at ease, which is definitely not always an easy thing to do in front of the camera.  Silliness abounds as he cracks goofy jokes and plays ridiculous games with little ones to get the amazing smiles that parents love.  Here are a few images that feature Greg - I'm sure he's going to really appreciate this!  :)

love these laughs!

always a good time with Greg!

modeling for me as I meter my light

doesn't every senior want an older creepy guy in their pics?!?

would have been a cute one if not for the large man-head

being a good sport - running so I can get my setting straight to "pan"

Marvella Salon Display

Did you know we have displays in local businesses all around town?  This week we updated all the wall portraits at Marvella Salon in Peoria Heights.  I just love showing off my amazing clients!  Many of the portraits are of the stylist's children so it's an awesome way for them to show off their beautiful kids!  Here's a few shots of the new portraits, stop in to see them in person!  They're located in the Heritage Square.  I'm posting all the new display portraits on our Facebook page - be sure to visit us there!

Heart of Illinois Fair Photography Contest

Did you know the Heart of Illinois Fair offers an annual photography contest? Submitting images for competition increases skill and confidence for many photographers.  Through the process of analyzing and selecting images you choose to submit, you are compelled to study your images and find areas to improve on.  This really helps to fine tune your craft.  It also gives you the opportunity to see your work alongside others and be inspired by them.  It is always so beneficial to be able to see the different styles and techniques used by our peers.
I was honored to be asked to be one of the judges in this years HOI fair contest, and I was impressed by many of the entries!  Also judging was Michael Vujovich - www.vujiphotos.com - and Kevin May - www.kevinmay.com.  It's always enjoyable chatting it up with other photographers, it was great meeting you both!

We're back baby!

Summer is here and I'm happy to say that DRAKEphoto and Red Haute Images has lots to be excited about! One of the most exciting announcements is that we are fully staffed with two amazing girls! Our Office Manager, Jessica, is the friendly voice you'll hear on the phone. She keeps me on track - something I very much need - and the office running smoothly. Julia is our Retouching Artist who fine tunes images, does album design and anything else I throw her way. I'm very thankful to have both of these girls and I feel like this amazing team can do anything! I had quit blogging early last year as I just never had the time to give it the attention it deserves. Now that I have these wonderful women, I'm going to give it another go. I'm looking forward to sharing more of what's going on in the DRAKEphoto world, check back soon! Also- feel free to leave comments below, we would love to hear from you as well!