Graduating Seniors have filled a wall with written notes about their portrait sessions at G. Patterson Studio.
Graduating Seniors have filled a wall with written notes about their portrait sessions at G. Patterson Studio.
At the studio, we have a dressing room for our clients. In that room, there is a wall where graduating seniors have written little notes about their sessions and signed their names. Looking at this wall the other day got me thinking about the individuality of each of these seniors. Every word is penned with its own particular handwriting. Each note has its own voice. Every signature is unique and stylistic. This hodgepodge of messages is a perfect representation of just how different each person is. As we go throughout our busy lives, we shouldn’t forget our diversity and what personal characteristics make us who we are. We should embrace them because it is our individuality that makes us so wonderfully special.
Whether it be for a high school senior, 6 month old baby, a brand new bride, or whatever, a portrait should exemplify what makes that person special. Their interests, attitude and personality should shine through for all to appreciate. We want to offer that to our clients. We do offer that to our clients. G. Patterson Studio helps bring out your inner “awesomeness” for others to see and enjoy. At the studio, we have an expression for our seniors, “Show the world your true self.” Let’s work together to make that thought a reality. Hope to see you soon!
Solo tree just outside of Douglass Texas along the el camino real de los tejas .
Solo tree just outside of Douglass Texas along the el camino real de los tejas .
Old church along el camino real de los tejas .
Old church along el camino real de los tejas .
Snow topped camellia bush behind historic Nacogdoches home.
Black & white snow ladder.
Nacogdoches Mound street snow covered business.
When Thursday afternoon temperatures started dropping, I was hopeful for some of that white goodness and we rarely see in Nacogdoches. About 6 pm last night, the snow came and continued for most of the night creating a beautiful white blanket over everything we normally view. Thankfully Douglass ISD started with a two-hour delay. We were certainly enjoying the few extra hours sipping on freshly brewed coffee.
There is a #solotree along my normal path into Nacogdoches from Douglass. I’ve been wanting to stop for the past month to capture the stark contrast between this tree without any sign of life which stands in front of an army of mighty pines. Today was one of hopefully many attempts to capture this solemn tree. I tend to see the world differently than most with even the most simplistic creating strong meaning and visuals such as this tree.
I’ve included a few additional images captured on this Nacogdoches Snow Day. I would love to hear your thoughts and or comments. And by all means, share the love of photography by sharing this blog post!
Enjoy!
Greg Patterson
Certified Professional Photographer
Three family photos depicting loving relationship.
The loving relationship within a family is easy to find, but often challenging to photograph. So when the moment comes, be ready!
When you have been around as long as G. Patterson Studio has, you think you have heard it all when it comes to doubts. Stressed out mothers will say, “There is just no way to get a good photo of my child.” Sarcastic dads will smirk, “Good luck with this family.” Nervous teenagers will say, “I don’t like pictures.” And even those parents, at the end of their portrait session, will sometimes ask, “Do you think we got anything at all?”
Yes, this kind of uncertainty and doubt can worry even the most experienced of photographers, but it always seems to turn out the same way (… at least at our studio.) When the client returns to view the images from their session, they are blown away. Tears immediately well up in the eyes. And then look out! Here come the ‘Thanks you’s!’ and ‘These are amazing’s!’ One recent client, who has been coming to us for years, said, “I sincerely wondered if you were able to capture anything with the way my kids ran around. But I don’t know why I ever doubt. The photos turned out beautifully, as they always do. Thank you!”
I can honestly say that the one complaint we get is NOT that the photos are bad, rather that there are too many good ones to choose from. But that’s what being a professional is all about. Capturing great tear-jerking moments through photography is not always easy. In fact, it is often hard. But it is so worth it when it is done right. And professionals are there to get it right every time. A professional understands that there will not be a second chance to capture that ‘I do’ wedding moment. A professional understands that children will not always cooperate, so you must be ready for the fraction of a second that they will. A professional can speak with a nervous teenager to make her feel at ease and actually laugh so her genuine smile shines through her senior portraits. A professional photographer should be ready for just about anything. After all, when working with people, you never know for certain what to expect.
Photography does not promise to get any easier in the future. Parents will still have their doubts. Teenagers will act shy. Children will go bonkers! But these are not meant to fuel the excuse train. These are exactly the reasons to seek out a professional who is completely capable of capturing the perfect portrait even when it seems challenging or impossible. G. Patterson Studio wants to photograph those once-in-a-lifetime moments of your family. We want to take away the stresses so that you can enjoy the fruits of our labor for many years to come. Your walls and shelves and coffee tables can be covered with priceless family memories. G. Patterson Studio is here to make that happen.
Daryl with his dog Bentley in a field of bluebonnets.
Daryl with his dog Bentley in a field of bluebonnets.
As a dog owner, I completely understand the strong bond of love and companionship a person experiences with their beloved pet. Personally, I am blessed to have a golden retriever whom I appropriately named Captain Jack Bentley. His name Bentley comes from the fact that he is as sleek and classy as the car. His rank of Captain is because he is so awesome he deserves to be saluted. And Jack because I just think that is a hilarious name for a dog. It’s cliche, but he is truly the best friend I have (OK, maybe tied with my wife.) Ever loyal, never angry nor prone to grudges, always ready to play or just be near me, he is a better friend to me than I deserve. I love my “golden” child. And I know that there are individuals and families all over Nacogdoches and East Texas that love their pets as much as I love mine. Now, I understand it can get annoying when you have that one friend that posts to facebook every last exploit, adventure, accomplishment…. or even nap of their fur-baby. But it’s because of their precious connection that pet owners can’t help themselves. They want to share with the whole world, just as I do, how much joy their companion brings to their lives.
Anyone that has read this much of this post is obviously an animal lover. You are the type of person that has enjoyed years of fun memories with your pet(s). Our studio caters to people just like you. A portrait of you and your pet that truly captures your relationship and their personality is something we can offer you. In addition, we give back to our local animal centered organizations to help promote the quality of life of needy animals. Years from now, when your puppy or kitten has grown and maybe even passed away, you can look back at those priceless photos and remember the joy your furry friend brought to your life. Consider the treasure of owning a lasting record of you and your “golden” child. And when you do, think of G. Patterson Studio in Nacogdoches.
Commercial image of Bancorp South employees taken by Greg Patterson
Commercial image of Bancorp South employees taken by Greg Patterson
Most people today understand the old phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words.” But what I want to talk about applies to all those business men and women out there whose careers hinge upon their image. To you I say, a picture is worth more than a thousand words… and you know it! It can be the very lifeblood of your business. A single photo has immeasurable affect on the way you are perceived by your potential clients, customers, and community. Like your reputation, your image is the determining factor as to whether someone will support your business or someone else’s. Having said all that, what does your latest business photo say about you or your company?
We are professionals in the image industry. We live and breathe photographs. It’s what we do. And we do it better than anyone else around. Like any other photo, we have the necessary experience and we take the needed time to carefully orchestrate the proper pose within the proper setting to create for you a photograph that expresses your desired image. Remember, good photographers can take good photos, but great photographers create great images.
Still reading?
In most cases, conveying your desired image does not end with the perfect photograph. The next logical step is to have that photo displayed in a manner worthy of the photo. We are happy to assist you in this respect as well. Whether you intend to display your business photo within a magazine, on a billboard, or on your business cards, please allow us the opportunity to finish the work that we started. Our layout and design services are another part of how we can ensure that your image says everything about you and your business that you intend it to.
If you would like to take this new year as an opportunity to update your old image or create something new, G. Patterson Studio is here to work with you.
Ice on pond at G Patterson Studio located in Nacogdoches Texas.
Ice on pond at G Patterson Studio located in Nacogdoches Texas.
It has been quite cold the past few days. Nacogdoches is not quite use to this type of weather. We had plumbers out to our house to fix problems with one of those on-demand hot water heaters that froze. I think they are thankful for the work but may be wishing the same we are wishing, and that is warm weather.
When I came into the studio Tuesday morning, I could hear the trickle of water back in the garden. Beyond my skin saying retreat for a warm environment, I veered off my normal path to the studio to examine the sound of water. It was about 18° that morning with an expected high just below freezing. There must have been some moisture from the previous night because as I walked, I could hear the grass under foot crack and pop as if frozen.
As I approached the pond, I could see the shimmer of sunlight bouncing off of the what was once water. Now frozen to about 1/2 inch thick ice. The falls were still running but with every splash, they were producing some fantastic ice sculptures on the rocks below. Cold but most defiantly still beautiful.
Warmth will come again and we will all be wishing for cooler temps.
Before we know it, we will be rocking 100° plus days which seem to stay with us much longer than cold. Are you ready for March/April? Spring is one of my most favorite seasons with March and April just about as perfect as it can get in East Texas.
However, by the end of this week, we are expected to be back in the mid to upper 60’s. Until then, enjoy this photo I captured with my trusty Nikon.
Enjoy,
Greg Patterson, Certified Professional Photographer
Nacogdoches Senior Class of 2014 at G. Patterson Studio portrait garden
After Christmas, one of two things generally happens to a senior. They either get busy or they get lazy (senior-itis). The first group tends to be on a mad hunt for scholarships and extra-curricular activities as they submit college applications. The other tends to sit back and coast and let the chips fall where they may. But no matter which category they fall into, everyone will agree that these final five months go by as a blur. So, to our graduating class of ’14 and your parents I say this, “Don’t blink. You might miss it.”
But hey, that’s what senior portraits are for… to help you remember all that you’ve accomplished and all that you represent right now in this moment in time… to remind family and friends of the whacky, zany, silly, funny, serious, studious, and hard-working sides of your personality. In the last week and a half, we have personally seen and scheduled many 2014 seniors for their senior portrait sessions. We’ve been talking graduation invitations, outfits, locations, and poses to make sure that this moment is perfectly catered to the individual. It’s obvious that students and parents alike are getting excited in their anticipation of graduation… and so are we! If you have been sitting around waiting for the right time to schedule, NOW is that time! Call the studio to discuss your ideal senior session and what products you’re most interested in. Hope to hear from you soon.
The beginning of something beautiful! Toasting to everything Happy Happy Happy!
The beginning of something beautiful! Toasting to everything Happy Happy Happy!
Can you say “Happy Happy Happy” Anniversary! Well I can as today my beautifully kind and amazing wife and I celebrate our anniversary.
Time really does fly when you are happily married. I do remember some not so easy moments but they are like dust in the wind compared to the years together. We started young at a mere age of 20. Young, excited and ready to start on our own, we were married 27 years ago today, January 3rd 1987.
Over the 27 years, we have celebrated the birth of three wonderful and healthy children. Watched as they grew, played Nacogdoches Baseball, NYSA Soccer and been part of the Nacogdoches Dragon Band.
We started a business from nothing, basically working out of a closet in one of our rented homes. The business has always been part of our family and close to our hearts. A strong sense of family has been important to us and the business allows us to share this passion by capturing those special moments for others.
Since its January and such a great month for tips, I though I would pass along my tips for my happy marriage.
1. Love your spouse more than yourself. Easy to say but putting self in anyplace other than first is difficult. When self is at least second, then in my opinion it allows for you to be joined together as one.
2. Realize that there will be bumps, hills and sometimes mountains to climb in life. Work, bills, kids can all wear on an otherwise healthy relationship if you let them be first. So go back to my tip No. 1 and make sure your spouse comes before you and the job and the kids and anything else.
3. There are really so many things I could say and have likely over 100 tips. Well this LAST tip is simple. Remember those two words you said during your marriage. You remember? “I DO!” Those two short words in my opinion are a promise. But what were you promising? My vows I promised “To have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness or in health, to love and to cherish ’till death do us part.” So my last tip is to remember your promise and be faithful to the best of your ability to live up to that oath.
I would love to hear your story and or comments.
Greg Patterson, Certified Professional Photographer
Get out and practice with your new camera. As you practice, you will learn and have fun while doing so. It’s a great New Year resolution and may bring some joy in your life for 2014.
Did Santa bring you a new camera for the new year? If so, I’ve got a few tips that will help you get started with capturing some great images.
1. I know it sounds lame, but open that little book that came with the camera and read at least the first chapter or so. It should be a pretty easy read and will get you familiar with the basic functions. Read with your new camera in front of you and be sure to make note of how to turn the camera on and off, the location of the shutter release, zoom for lens, button or menu setting for ISO and white balance.
By the way, don’t try to learn all of the menu options. If you had a difficult time programming that old VCR, then trying to figure out all the menu items will easily confuse you early on. If you read something and it doesn’t make sense, simply read on and don’t get bogged down in technical details. Shoot for the basics at this point.
2. With the knowledge of being able to turn on the camera, set the camera to any of its programed shooting modes. Sometimes its a green P, or a symbol of some sort. Refer back to the manual if you can’t find it. Once found, I suggest going outside and practice. Go out during the day which should yield enough light for quality images and shoot until you get bored.
Practice capturing subjects that won’t run away or move. Your house, car, flowers, etc. all work well. Try to train your fingers to the locations of commonly used buttons. Be sure to to zoom and and out so you may practice with the lens as well.
Shooting in Program mode will force the camera to do all of the work for you with regards to setting the shutter speed and aperture. With time you can learn how to control these but at first its important to simply get started. Shooting in Program lets you enjoy quality results without all of the knowledge.
3. So you read some, practiced some, now its time to evaluate your results. I suggest downloading your images to a computer of choice. I’m a Mac user but any PC would work just as well. Once downloaded, use the OS or a program such as Adobe Bridge or Apple iPhoto to view the images. Look at each image you captured evaluating the technical quality. Look for sharpness and overall exposure. Try to remember what camera setting was used and make a note or mental note of what worked and what didn’t work.
You can put the camera card back into the camera during this process for some additional details sometimes not easily seen when viewing on a computer. With the media card back in the camera, look for things like focus point (where the camera focused), histogram (technical but helps to evaluate exposure) and any other settings used.
4. Once you have a handful of favorites, I suggest you send them off to be printed. Print 4×6″ at a minimum but if you feel you really have a few good shots, consider printing 8×10 inch prints. In Nacogdoches, any of the local drug stores can print.
With print in hand, compare what you were seeing on the computer. Darker, lighter or spot on? Compare to what you were seeing in the camera display.
5. The last tip is to give your favorite image to a friend, co-worker or family member. Have you heard about the Joy of Photography? Give your favorite image away and you will experience it in both you and the person you gave it to.
I would love to hear about your experiences regarding the new camera and new year.
Enjoy!
Greg Patterson, Certified Professional Photographer
