Patti Maravolo Photography

New Blog!

2011-01-05T22:34:00.004-05:00

I have a new blog! (click on the word "blog" to be taken to new blog immediately.)Please make sure you update your bookmark and/or your RSS! See you soon!

West Michigan Portrait and Wedding Photographer::Patti Maravolo Photography::The Jebb/Edwards Family

2010-08-20T17:33:00.005-04:00

This family is fun and sassy in every sense of the word. I had the privilege of photographing this wonderful family. And I had a great time. I heard they did too! Perhaps the most admiral part of this family is that they have given our country two service men. There is no greater pride then to see our men and women in uniform, representing us with such pride and respect. Your gallery is finished, but here is my favorite!

Skip's Summer School

2010-08-15T15:14:00.005-04:00

The view from my room of the Vegas strip. Also...image #1 from my newest project....3.6.5

I recently returned from my trip to Las Vegas. It was my first time visiting and it was AMAZING! I have to be honest....this trip was not all business. Lets face it...I was in Vegas! I had the distinct honor of attending Skip's Summer School. A summer school and trade show all in one for photographers of all kinds. The speakers were amazing! Their talent, their stories and their generosity, not only as people, but also as professionals, was refreshing. I have said it time and time again....but one more time won't hurt...photographers LOVE their jobs and it shows. Their optimism, hard work and dedication are just a few qualities that make this profession so attractive. And it is the photographers dedication to their trade, their desire and want to share and teach, that make it even more attractive and inspiring. Thank you to Skip Cohen and an even bigger thank you to Greg Schrader for giving me, a small town girl...a newbie in the industry, the opportunity to attend and learn from the best! An inspiring visit that has left me excited to put in place all that I have learned!

Grand Re-Opening!

2010-08-03T22:00:00.004-04:00

2010 has been such a blessed year for me. I have learned more about who I am and the type of photographer I want to be. Recently, a former client called and told me that her grandmother had died. She called to say thank you for giving her and her family something that no one else had...photographs of her grandmother. She went on to say that her grandmother was not one to have pictures taken of her....she thought they should be reserved for the children and grandchildren. Her first portrait since her wedding day was taken by me. There are few words to describe the feeling I experienced as my client told me this story. I am humbled and honored, indeed. Since then, I have come to realize that what I do as a photographer is more than take pictures...I capture memories; I immortalize people. Each time I meet a new client or pick up my camera, I wonder what my lens will see. I desperately seek the inner self and emotion in all that I capture. Now with even more passion, I seek to capture more with my lens.

I am calling this my Grand Re-Opening, not because I need to, but it describes the new and better direction I hope my photography takes me. I want to offer more, at the best value. You deserve that! Lets face it, the economy is not any better, and we could all use a break. Please take a moment to visit my website for new pricing and offerings. Then give me a call. I would love to meet you, talk with you and discuss a photo shoot with you in mind.

Summer Specials

2010-06-02T04:06:00.002-04:00

It has been a hot, but beautiful start to summer. That has me wanting to be outside shooting more!

I know that times have been tough for many families, financially. After having coffee with a wonderful girlfriend of mine and hearing her stories of sacrifice, I desprately wanted to ease her burdens. She, like many other families, is unable to update family photographs, let alone afford to have professional portraits done of her 1 year old. As a mother, that's hard to hear. I am fortunate...I have a good paying job and have not had to worry much during these hard economic times. I believe in paying it forward. To that end, I have temporarily decreased my basic session fee, senior portrait packages and wedding packages. Individual portrait pricing will remain the same. However, new collections have been added for multiple image purchases. Please call for current wedding packages and pricing.

**Basic Session Fee ......$50 (originally $100)
** Basic Senior 2011................$250
includes up to a 3 hour session and 2 locations (beach location pricing remains the same)
unlimited dressing changes
2-8x10
4-5x7
10-4x6
32 wallets
spiral bound proof album
30 day online proofing
********Still accepting senior gals and guys for senior class portrait representatives*********
Please call for additional information or collection prices and details. As these have not yet been posted to my website.

Nora::4 years old {Patti Maravolo Photography::West Michigan Children's Photographer}

2010-03-15T14:40:00.004-04:00

I have had the distinct pleasure of watching Nora grow up into a beautiful little girl. It is hard to believe that she is 4! Thank you again Sara and Nora and little sister Gretchen for being such great sports in the cold. Here a few photos. I cannot wait to share the rest! Enjoy!

Casting Call for Senior Portrait Representatives::Class of 2011

2010-03-09T13:15:00.002-05:00

{rep card example}

{promo cards}

I am currently looking for High School Juniors who would like the opportunity to represent their class! You will receive a free senior portrait session and a chance to earn credit (free money) to use towards prints, open house cards, thank you, etc.

How does it work?

Call me today to set up your senior session. You have a choice of two locations...studio, your home, urban, park or beach (no additional cost for beach locations!). And unlimited dressing changes. Once your session is complete, your photos will be edited and posted online in a viewing gallery for 30 days. You will also receive a proof album and rep cards with images of yourself, my studio information and a free gift for those you refer to me.

Then what?

For each paying referral that calls and sets an appointment with me for their senior session, you will receive $25 in credit to use towards reprints, wallets, open house cards, even a soft covered signature album to use at your open house!

Sounds too good, what's the catch?

No catch. It is a simple way for you to earn a free portrait session and credit, just for telling your friends that, "I had my senior pictures taken at Patti Maravolo Photography. And I love them! You should go there too!"

Please call today to set up your appointment. Offer ends June 11, 2010!

GR Wedding Experience

2010-03-08T09:11:00.004-05:00

I had a great time at the GR Wedding Experience held at the Amway Grand Plaza on Sunday. The staff at the Amway were, as always, very accommodating. And Brooke Sheldon's staff were just as accommodating and easily accessible. What a great experience for vendors and brides alike.

I met some amazing brides! I am excited that so many of you stopped by and said hi. Please, if you have any questions, give me a call...I would love to talk with you more.

I am also excited to announce that Sarah R from Grand Rapids has won my raffle for a Bride's Survival Pack, loaded with items to use on her wedding day! Congratulations, Sarah!

Hello Again!

2010-03-06T00:13:00.005-05:00

I am truly sorry for taking a vacation from my blogging. Thankfully I have been busy taking beautiful photographs, which has left little time to blog. No worries though, if you enjoy seeing my current work, please visit my website, as I make every attempt to update my galleries.

I am excited to be a part of the Grand Rapids Wedding Experience held at the beautiful and elegant Amway Grand Plaza on Sunday, March 7, from 12-5pm. If you or anyone you know, who is newly engaged or planning a wedding, please encourage them to attend. The setting is like no other bridal show. Three ballrooms will be set up and fully decorated (ceremony, dinner, dance). Vendors will be scattered throughout these three areas so that guests can experience the setting while talking with vendors. More information can be found at http://www.grweddingexperience.com/ Hope to see you there!

Also, I will be participating in Miller's 2010 Baby and Child Portrait Contest. $500-$5000 is up for grabs. Prize money is awarded to the family of the winning portrait. If you are interested in having your baby or child entered, please call to schedule a portrait session by March 18, 2010.

of the heart

2009-11-19T17:21:00.002-05:00

Over the last year, I have found myself very blessed; from the people I have met to the opportunities that have come my way, because of my love and dedication to photography. I find myself wanting to give just as much of myself as others have given to me. The opportunity to create a ongoing project has been the answer to such prayers.

"Of the heart" is an ongoing project aiming to provide individuals and families with an opportunity they might not otherwise be able to afford. The dignity and strength in which these individuals possess and exude, while under harsh and extreme circumstances, deserve recognition.

My mission is simple: to provide an individual or family with the opportunity to have an all expense paid professional photography session; replacing worries and frustrations with laughter and smiles. But, I need your help. Nominate an individual or family that is deserving of such an opportunity. Your nomination can include, but not limited to, someone who has lost their job; someone who has been affected by serious medical complications; someone who is giving of their time and self despite having very little themselves. Please email me your nomination, complete with your name, address, and phone number. Please include contact information for your nominee, also. Please limit your essays to less than 500 words. Once all nomination letters have been reviewed, the top three nominations will be posted on my blog for viewers to read and vote. The nominee with the most votes will win a free 1 hour photo session, 1-8x10, 2-5x7 and 10-4x6 prints. An "of the heart" award will be given away 4 times a year, during the months of Dec, March, June and Sept. Previous nominations will not be carried forward, but encourage to be resubmitted for each nomination review.

Your support is greatly appreciated and will benefit those living around you! The inaugural family has been chosen and will be announced early in December! Nominations for the March award will be accepted beginning in January. Please stay tuned for that announcement.

Happy Halloween

2009-11-02T16:17:00.003-05:00

Perhaps the most beautiful reason why photography is such an intricate part of me. I NEVER want this moment forgotten.

Henry :: Class of 2010

2009-10-18T14:54:00.004-04:00

I had a blast photographing this great looking senior! What a great sport too! It was cold, but he toughed it out. Thanks Henry for a great day. I hope you had just as much fun. Enjoy your preview! I know your anxious to see the results!

Katie and Ian & Owen

2009-10-17T17:10:00.003-04:00

It was a cold, but lovely day and this family made it even better. First family photos! Katie and Ian, I hope you are as excited about your sneak peak, as I am! Enjoy!

Ava & Alec

2009-10-17T16:27:00.003-04:00

I had a fantastic time photographing Big Sister Ava and Little Brother Alec! Erin, thank you for the opportunity to capture this moment. Enjoy your sneak peak!

Chicago Workshop

2009-10-17T15:29:00.007-04:00

The are NO words to describe the amazing time I had in Chicago last weekend with Greg Schrader Photography and his associates. The changes I have undergone under Greg's direction and teaching has been amazing. The best part....my photographs match my vision!!! A BIG thank you to Greg, Brandi, and Juli for a fantastic time. "X" and Chris, your makeup and hair made our models look hot, sexy and amazing! Kendra, Issac, Monica and Cam, thank you from every inch of me, for taking time out to model for us. I hope you had just as an amazing time and fun, as I did! The experience was phenomenal, the results.....priceless!

(A complete gallery from this workshop will be uploaded to my website soon!)

Rhonda & Greg

2009-09-16T14:18:00.008-04:00

I had the distinct pleasure of photographing Rhonda and Greg's wedding day. I was met late morning with the beautiful sites of House in Woods, their reception site. The gigantic white tents were decorated simply with white lights and toile chandlers. The tables were dressed in white linens with splashes of black and chartruse green. Rhonda and Greg's ceremony took place in a quaint county church with corn and wheat fields as the backdrop. The bride carried a bouquet of chartruse flowers with a single yellow rose in memory of her father. The bridesmaids each carried a bouquet of bold, bright colored flowers, each as unique as the person carrying it. Their "get away" car decorated, by the groomsmen, with beer cans, shoes and a beloved teddy bear. The evening got started with a wonderful dinner that filled the air with sweet, smokey notes of barbecue . As dusk fell, the couple shared their first dance as husband and wife with the rest of their wedding party. It was a beautiful start to a great party. Congratulations to Rhonda and Greg. A special thank you for allowing me to be an intimate part of your wedding day. Enjoy the sneak peak! I cannot wait to share the rest of your album with the two of you!

Trash the Prom Dress Workshop

2009-08-30T10:57:00.005-04:00

I had a fantastic opportunity to attend a workshop hosted by Greg Schrader of Schrader Photography. His twist on "Trash the Dress"... "Trash the Prom Dress". I had a fabulous time and learned more than I expected. The models were fantastic to work with and very beautiful. I hope you enjoy a small sampling of my photos. To view the complete gallery from this workshop, please visit my website and click on "senior gallery", highlight and click on "Trash the Prom Dress".

Greg's Mission: "To capture the best image in the worst of conditions and locations"

Mission Accomplished!

(I won the mission!)

Miles-Class of 2010

2009-08-16T23:07:00.003-04:00

I had a fabulous time photographing Miles, Class of 2010. It was sunny, beautiful and one of the warmer days this summer! Thanks Miles for the opportunity. I had a great time and hope you did too. Best wishes and enjoy your senior year!

Let's Celebrate!

2009-07-29T22:04:00.004-04:00

It is time to celebrate my 1 year anniversary with Patti Maravolo Photography! It has been an amazing year with many changes and new beginnings. A new website and new logo will launch me into my second year, along with online proofing for added ease. It is my hope that the changes I make will allow for greater ease with navigation, search, and ultimately provide you with the best products the industry has to offer. Thank you for making my first year successful and fulfilling!

I also want to extend the following offers in celebration of my 1 year!

Basic Wedding Package $500

now includes all day shoot!

(offer good through 12/31/09)

Basic Photo Sessions

Book before Sept 1 and receive 10% of a package price and an 8x10!

It's Finally Here!

2009-07-16T15:41:00.003-04:00

It is with great pleasure and excitement that I announce the launching of my website!! I hope you love it as much as I do. Let me know what you think about it! As always, my blog will continue to be updated with client sneak peaks and special offers and news. My website will play host to galleries and pricing. Please contact me with any questions or suggestions! Thank you for all of your support!

http://www.pattimaravolophotography.com

Lizzy and Andrew

2009-06-28T22:36:00.005-04:00

It was a pleasure to spend time with Denise, Lizzy and Andrew. Although it was a very warm morning, it was very beautiful!!! And who can resist spending a little time by the lake?! I hope you enjoy your sneak peak. I cannot wait to share the rest of your photos with you!

Summer Promotion

2009-05-26T15:14:00.002-04:00

Are you looking for a way to get great senior portraits without the big prices? I am looking for High School Senior representatives for the Class of 2010. For every paid senior portrait booking you refer to me, you will receive 10% off the basic price. Referring 10 paid senior sessions means your entire basic senior portrait session is FREE! Call today for more details and to schedule your session.

Under Construction. Again?!

2009-05-26T00:18:00.002-04:00

You may be noticing a few differences in my blog. Please be patient as I anticipate the launching of my new website in early June. This is very exciting for me and a labor of love. My blog will continue to be the launching pad for specials, news and etc. My website will take the place of what my blog has been, which is information about your portrait experience. Also new in June, the ability of online proofing and ordering! I hope that you find this a more convenient way to enjoy and share your photos. I cannot wait! Stay tuned for the grand announcement!

Patti Maravolo Photography enjoys the "One Lovely Blog Award"

2009-05-18T10:42:00.002-04:00

Thank you to ele 3 Event Design and Planning for granting me the "One Lovely Blog Award". It is a honor to be awarded for my talents by a mutually talented and simply wonderful vendor. If you have not had an opportunity to check out ele 3, please do so. You can find there link under "Noteworthy Vendors" on the side bar of my blog.

I accept this award and am very pleased to share this honor with our blogging community and followers.

Here are a few blogs that I enjoy to follow...

1. ele 3 Event Design and Planning

2. JK Photography

3. Amy Carrol Photography

Fellow bloggers, pass on the love by:

1. Accepting the award.

2 Posting it on your blog along with the name of the person who has granted the award and blog link.

3. Passing the award to other blogs that you enjoy following.

4. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

Simple Beauty

2009-05-18T10:31:00.004-04:00

I love photographing outside!!!! Thanks to warmer weather, I had a perfect opportunity to photograph this simply beautiful family. So many photographs to choose from, I had a hard time selecting just a few for your sneak peak. Nonetheless, the rest are just as breath taking. I hope you agree and enjoy!!

Welcome Spring!

2009-05-11T10:27:00.000-04:00

It is hard to pass by an opportunity to photograph nature's wonderment and beauty. My mother in law's gardens provided a picture perfect opportunity to "stop and smell the flowers". I hope you too find time to appreciate nature's beauty as you welcome spring!

Bella Ragazza

2009-04-22T21:56:00.003-04:00

Bella Ragazza means "beautiful little girl" in Italian. Okay, I know I'm partial; after all she is my daughter! I have said it many times before and I'll say it again. I cannot believe she is 3 years old! I hope you enjoy a sample of her photo shoot.

A breath of fresh air!

2009-04-16T09:58:00.003-04:00

Last night, I attended a photography workshop, taught by Jen (JK Photography) and Amy (Amy Carroll Photography). It was a great experience! These two women are not only amazing photographers, but they are amazing women too. It is no wonder they have been so successful with their growing business. I cannot wait to use my new found knowledge! Thanks Jen and Amy for your time and generosity! You girls rock!!!!

Something New!

2009-03-23T21:14:00.003-04:00

As I look for ways to challenge myself as a photographer, I am constantly aroused by fresh, modern twists to how things are usually done. Though, I am not looking to reinvent the wheel ( I don't have time for that.), I am in search of a niche and ways to separate myself as a growing photographer. Then it hit me. I currently find myself in a dilemma, as a mother and a photographer. I want to spend time with my daughter and husband, but often stop and think what a great photo opportunity is passing us by. So what does this have to do with "something new". I call it "Simply Everyday". For an hourly fee, you can hire me to photograph your everyday or special moments. Whether it be an engagement, a birthday party, or just an outing, I will be behind the scenes capturing your day in pictures.

How much does something like this cost?
$50 for the first hour and $30 for each additional hour.

What else do I get with this package?
You will receive a premium proof album that is spiral bound with a personalized cover with the occasion and date. (photo of premium proof album example to be posted soon.).

What can I expect?
A short interview (can be over the phone) can and usually will create a hope and desire on your part. Your ideas, wants and desires are a welcomed part of the planning process. You can expect me to be there, but not always seen; thus, creating a natural and intimate mood. Just as with any photo shoot, your proofs will be available for viewing within 3-4 weeks of your event. All orders, should you want to order, are to be placed within 2 weeks of proof delivery, to avoid a 15% charge.

Simply Everyday is only available for a limited time!

2 minutes and we're done!

2009-03-20T10:01:00.004-04:00

It is hard to believe that my daughter will be turning 3 soon! In just 2 short minutes, I got some great shots for her birthday invitations. Here is the photo that I chose for her invitation.

Look Out World, Grace is 1!

2009-03-02T11:22:00.004-05:00

I had a wonderful time with Grace. She is all that a one year should be...fun, sassy and always with her own agenda. Thanks Jen for allowing me the privilege of photographing Grace!

All Because Two People Fell in Love

2009-02-17T10:34:00.004-05:00

I recently had the pleasure of photographing this wonderful family and meeting extended family members. I hope that this is what Grandma had in mind. Enjoy your sneak peak.

Studio time!

2009-02-16T11:26:00.002-05:00

It is official! I have my very own studio. I am so excited to offer you the option of studio sessions! Look forward to working with you soon.

Simply Beautiful

2009-01-27T14:43:00.002-05:00

Happy 3rd Birthday, Nora! What a beautiful, sassy little girl. I still cannot get over all the hair. And the curls!!!!!!! Thanks again Nora and Sara for inviting me to photograph you. You make a photographer's job a dream. I hope you enjoy! The rest are not far behind.

I'm an aunt!

2009-01-20T16:55:00.001-05:00

I am happy to announce that I am a new aunt! Her name is Catalina. Now 4 weeks old, she is a beautiful, happy and healthy little girl. Thanks to my sister and brother-in-law for allowing me to photograph their beautiful baby. Cannot wait for more photo ops!!!!

New Prices and Products for 2009

2009-01-04T18:40:00.002-05:00

A new year calls for new beginnings, new products and a new look! I am excited to announce my new products and packages that I hope make capturing your moments easier to enjoy and share. I look forward to launching my new logo, similar to my copyright, in the next month. I hope you enjoy. Looking forward to seeing you in 2009!

A Simple Christmas

2008-12-17T14:48:00.005-05:00

A wonderful family who just needed something more than a snapshot for their Christmas cards. Enjoy your sneak peak! It was hard to post just a couple.

Merry Christmas and the Happiest of New Years

2008-12-08T16:30:00.004-05:00

It has been an amazing year! And it is all because of wonderful clients, family and friends. I have been blessed with not only a gift, but also with a purpose and a lens to capture moments too dear to let pass. From our home to your home this holiday season, may the reason for the season live within you all year long. Looking forward to working with you in 2009.

Winter Wonderland

2008-12-07T16:11:00.000-05:00

The Meredith family has been such an amazing family and their loyalty has humbled me. Just as one would expect, the extended family is just as much fun to be with. I hope you enjoy your sneak peak. The rest is not far behind!

The Perfect Gift

2008-11-22T16:59:00.003-05:00

All mom wants this Christmas are photographs of her daughter. Rachael, I hope these will please the two of you. Thanks for being such a great sport! I know it was cold, but it was well worth it. I hope you enjoy the sneak peak!

Storyboards

2008-11-20T14:57:00.002-05:00

Amazing how so little says so much! Introducing....storyboards and greeting cards. New for 2009! I hope you enjoy.

Under Construction

2008-11-12T14:53:00.003-05:00

Please forgive the mess! I am currently undergoing changes, not only to the look of my blog page, but also to the products and services that I am excited to offer to you in 2009. Please contact me if you are interested in booking a photo session, for updated prices, services and packages. Thank you for your patience!

Bridal Showcase 2009

2008-11-06T14:22:00.002-05:00

It is my pleasure to introduce new and exciting packages and products for 2009 brides. If you are planning on getting married in 2009, please contact me for a free consultation. A limited number of wedding bookings are available for 2009. Call today!

Fallasburg in Fall Time

2008-10-10T13:52:00.000-04:00

I had a wonderful time with the Meredith family. A beautiful setting and a fabulous family, what more could I ask for. Thanks again, Meredith family, for allowing me to be a part of your family for a short time. I enjoy our time together and hope to work with you all again soon! Happy Fall!

Class of 2009

2008-09-24T07:39:00.003-04:00

Seniors, its not too late to book your senior portrait session. You choose where you want your photographs taken-the beach, the park, your home. Call me today to reserve your appointment.

October Special

2008-09-23T21:44:00.004-04:00

Take advantage of the beautiful colors fall has to offer and book your family portrait session now! Take 10% off the price of a package. This special begins October 1 and ends the 31st. (Excludes senior, wedding and pregnancy packages.)

Hastings High School-Class of 2009

2008-09-21T21:50:00.003-04:00

I recently had the pleasure of photographing these two bright and beautiful seniors. Ryan and Kourtney, I hope you had fun. I did! Best wishes to you both! Enjoy your last and best year! 2009 Rocks!!

Miss M

2008-08-26T14:05:00.002-04:00

She is the reason and motivation for why I have become a professional photographer-my daughter! Now almost 2 1/2 years old, she is bright, sassy and fully of energy. If you are a mom, or a dad, for that matter, how could you possibly pass up a moment like this?!

Summer Fun

2008-07-02T14:34:00.000-04:00

This is why I love photography! Flannery, it was a pleasure photographing you. I had a GREAT time. You are a beautiful little girl with so much attitude. Jessica, I hope you love these pictures, as much as I do. Thank you for such a wonderful time!

ele 3

2008-06-21T14:42:00.003-04:00

Thanks to the ladies behind ele3, Event Design and Planning. I had a great time. Your tablescapes are beautiful. I would hire you! I wish you all the best and success as you set out on your new endeavour.

Celebrating Pregnancy

2008-06-18T15:20:00.004-04:00

Thank you to Matt, Sara and Nora (big sister) for allowing me the opportunity to photograph such a wonderful, exciting and intimate chapter in your lives. I look forward to meeting your new addition. The Maravolo's are anxiously awaiting your newest arrival.

Welcome

2008-06-06T10:36:00.002-04:00

What an amazing feeling it is to be able to photograph friends, family and new clients for a living. The response has been overwhelming and a blessing all in one. Thank you to each one of you for your support and loyality. I hope that you find this blog helpful and useful as I build my website. In the future, I hope that my website will be a fully functioning one for you to view galleries, view your own proofs, and order. As my business grows, I hope to add additional products that will allow you and your loved ones to enjoy your memories even more. In the meantime, please enjoy my blog; visit it often; and pass my link on to others who may need my services.