. . . Because every picture has a story to tell.
Thank you for visiting. I think you will find my blog posts as varied as my photographic and personal interests--a few of which I hope also appeal you. - Tammy Russell-Rice CPP



Monday, February 18, 2013

Bellies and Babies on Display


Once just pictures stuffed into a baby album after a maternity or newborn session, today's woman is turning a new page by creating wall displays with these images that go beyond nursery themes.

The sophisticated displays are produced on metal, featuring a high gloss or satin finish, and mounted to allow each piece to stand-out from the wall.  Ramona's collection of images shown here from two sessions, featuring three generations, was rendered this way with rounded corners, giving it a sculptural quality that is beautiful to behold.

While first year albums are still popular (at least for first born children), I really love the wall collection concept.  The configuration can be easily changed to keep it fresh, and new pieces may be added as the child grows or siblings come into the picture.  Additionally, metal prints are more durable than traditional photographic prints and may be ordered in wide range of sizes up to 43 x 96 inches!

For more info on metal prints and to see actual samples, please visit:
http://www.bayphoto.com/metalprints/single/index.htm

Family portrait sessions, pet sessions and more make for great metal art arrangements too.  Further, all make wonderful conversation pieces.  Metal wall collections are something to enjoy everyday--not just on those occasions when you might think to pull out the ol' album.

- Tammy

Congratulations Ramona on the birth of your beautiful daughter.

Saturday, January 19, 2013

Who's Who in American Dogdom - Making the A-List


In the first-ever issue of ShowSight Magazine, Doll-McGinnis Enterprises published its lists of Who's Who in American Dogdom for 2013.  One list consists of professional handlers and the other features professional photographers and graphic artists--all of whom were deemed as providers of the best in dog show quality services across America.

Needless to say, learning that my name would appear on the A-List of top canine photographers was a proud moment for me.

I actually have been photographing dogs all my life.  And, I have been photographing show dogs from the time I was in high school, starting with my first show prospect--an Irish Setter named Erin.  While he never "finished," this experience proved to be the starting point of my love for the sport of purebred dogs. 

As a professional photographer, I find it takes more than photographic skill to create great images of dogs, especially purebred dogs.  While one need not be a graduate of the American Canine Education Foundation's Judges Institute as I am, it is important to have an understanding of basic canine conformation and behavior.  Additionally, a working knowledge of breed type and expression is a real plus!  After all, it's these nuances that truly make each portrait special to me and my clients. 

My thanks and appreciation goes out to all of my clients who have favored me with the pleasure of photographing their dogs, especially Jean Gauchat-Hargis of Summerwind Canines.  I'd also like to thank A.J. Arapovic of ShowSight for nominating me as a top photographer and graphic artist.  For this and more, I am honored--thank you!

- Tammy

Now accepting reservations for sessions at the shows in Scottsdale, AZ
February 28 - March 2 

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Eye Candy for Photographers - The Westcott Shootout

David as "Magic Mike" at the Westcott Shootout - By TRR Photography

Nothing signals the end of summer and beginning of Fall like Photoshop World and Expo here in Las Vegas.  A must attend event for image makers of all skill levels and genres, it's simply the best training on the planet (you thought I was going to say, world, didn't you?).

Always popular is the Shootout sponsored by Westcott Lighting Solutions on the Expo floor.  And this time, Westcott partnered with Canon to bring attendees live educational demos showcasing lighting techniques that may be used in our own studios.  Although, hands-down, the real attraction remains the various vignettes created for the Shootout competition.  Everything from backdrops to models to costumes to hair and makeup, and, of course, lighting are skillfully executed in the booths.  I especially enjoyed seeing and learning from the stylings of Shelley Giard.  Simply put, it's eye candy for photographers!

Kelly in Yellow at the Westcott Shootout - By Let Your Sexy Out - The Sexy Side of TRR Photography

While I usually only observe, this year I decided to participate in the Shootout as shown here.  After all, I just couldn't resist.  I like candy!

Thank you Westcott Lighting Solutions!

- Tammy                 

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Facebook Friday Sessions - "LIKE"

SEPTEMBER STUDIO SPECIAL:

We just love seeing photos we have created of you posted on Facebook.  So, TRR Photography is holding Facebook Friday Sessions for the entire month of September.  These mini sessions include:

* your choice of a backdrop
* your best side
* and, your BEST FRIEND is welcome too! 

For more details, see the flyer posted here.  We hope you "LIKE" this and will take us up on our special offer!


Tuesday, July 17, 2012

These Circle Frames Will Make Your Head Spin!

Circle Frame and Portrait by TRR Photography

It's not often that a new photographic product comes along and captures my imagination the way these circle frames do.  Using any image, any design, I can create something truly outside of the box!

Manufactured exclusively by our lab, the circle frames are 3" wide and have black painted edges.  They come with a keyhole slot and pilot holes to maximize mounting options.  I, personally, think ribbon makes for a stylish option as shown below. 

As though that were not enough, eight different sizes are currently available ranging from 6" to 24."  Matting also is available with a choice of colors and widths.  Shown in the example above is a 20" circle frame with 2" black mat over a 16" mounted metallic portrait print.  This particular piece was actually on display at the Annual Gala of the Nevada Justice Association last month where it created quite the buzz.  Unfortunately, my snapshot doesn't do it justice.  What can I say, I am not a product photographer.

In short, these circle frames will make your head spin!  They certainly are one of my favorite new products in the studio.  Mention this blog post and you will receive complimentary matting (single or double) and ribbon on your order.  Offer good at TRR Photography thru 12/31/12.

- Tammy

Friday, June 15, 2012

Professional Photographer Magazine 2012 Cover Contest


Snooki as a Cover Girl - One part feminine, one part fierce!

There's just something about this image that I find irresistible.  Maybe it's her gaze and body language, or how she appears to be coming out of the photo, but one thing is certain, this Cane Corso puppy named Snooki exudes breed type.

I know I am not alone on this feeling as it has been suggested more than once, that I ought to submit this portrait of Snooki to a purebred calendar company.  I, however, did one better!  

You said cover girl--and I listened.  When entry submissions for the annual cover contest of Professional Photographer magazine opened, I entered Snooki!

Although here's the best part, you are encouraged to "Rate My Cover Photo" and any other images submitted for consideration.  Using a 5-Star system with 1 = Not So Great to 5 = Excellent, images are then sorted with the Top Ranked featured on the home page.  So, I invite you to use the link below to login and VOTE for Snooki.

Professional Photographer Magazine 2012 Cover Contest

If you like me enjoy photography, you just may want to sit a spell and peruse the lot!  New photos are being added everyday.  Image submissions and your votes will be accepted through August 31st.

- Tammy

Friday, May 25, 2012

Senior Sessions - Always an Adventure

Getting Her Feet Wet - On location at Lake Las Vegas with TRR Photography

There's nothing like getting out of your comfort zone to spark the creative juices.  For me, that recently entailed a high school senior and location shoot at Lake Las Vegas.  The idea was hers.

For those of you who don't know, the master-planned community is closer to Lake Mead than Las Vegas, so if you go, plan ahead.  Although, when it comes to location shooting, there's a limit as to the amount of planning you can or ought to do.  This is true for amateur and pro photographers alike.

After all, senior sessions should be an adventure.  I, personally, prefer to let them unfold before my lens much like my subject's young life is opening for her.  While I never go into a session without a tentative game plan, I find that my favorite images usually are those that present themselves unannounced.  And, with a willing subject like Hailey (shown here), there is opportunity for great image making at every turn.  Even the ordinary can become the extraordinary--and isn't that what photography really is about?

Imagine all your tomorrows as empty pages
you can fill any way you desire.
Imagine the future you want,
and believe that you have what it takes to
create the wonderful life you deserve...
Because you do.
Just be yourself,
and you're sure to succeed.

Congratulations to the Class of 2012

- Tammy  

To my fellow photographers reading this who usually do not shoot seniors, I highly recommend that you adopt one for the day and get your feet wet.  I promise you will return from the session with a fresh perspective on the world and your work.  Thank you, Hailey!