Who is The Next Plain Jane????

Remember this post?

Well, Jeff just finished photographing the newest Plain Jane for Not So Plain Jane's . . . and while we can't reveal who she is just yet (Shhh! It's a surprise!), we thought you might like to see some of the lovely Plain Janes from previous years.

See anyone you know?

Not to taunt you or anything, but the session with The Next Plain Jane and NSPJ staff was a blast. We can't wait to show you who she is! And who knows . . . maybe next time the NSPJ Plain Jane will be YOU!

Sweet baby smiles.

Hi there, all!

Bebe sessions bring us an enormous amount of joy at the studio . . . this little guy just came in with his mom and grammie and we almost died over how cute and personable he was. His big grin and giggles had us ooo-ing and ahh-ing for his entire session and everyone at the studio got a hug. Seriously, it really doesn't get much better than that!

We hope a glimpse of his portraits (oh, those rosy cheeks!) brings a smile to your day!

~Abby

(P.S. If you're interested in learning more about our photography of infants and children, visit the website and call us at the studio- 603.626.7300).

Hats off to Jeff!

It's been all over Facebook, but I thought we should take the time to post how excited we are that Jeff took away NH Photographer of the Year at NHPPA Conference this weekend!

He also earned the CPP (Certified Professional Photographer) Award, the ASP (American Society of Photographers) State Award, two court of honors, a Kodak Gallery Award, the Lustre Color Highest Scoring Print Award and Best of Show- phew!

Many thanks to all the judges, speakers and participants in this year's NHPPA conference. Jeff and Carolle thought this year was really successful, despite the unwelcome snow that showed up.

I'd like to say that Jeff and Carolle are resting soundly after so much hard work, but it's quite the opposite. More exciting projects on the way, so stay tuned!

~Abby

A look behind the curtain.

Ever wonder what it is that Jeff and Carolle do when they present all over the country? Check out these captures from their recent trip to Illinois!

(Above: at the Dachowski Photography table with various studio marketing materials)

(Above: senior and family session demonstrations with volunteer models)

About 75 photographers attended Jeff and Carolle's seminar- talk about flattering! Check out the final product from this session on the studio Facebook page.

This weekend, the Dachowskis are off to the NHPPA convention in northern NH. More on that next week!

(Images courtesy of Larry Zabinski)

On the go!

Things have been oh-so-crazy here at the studio over the last few weeks.

Just when we thought Jeff and Carolle had settled back in from travelling, off they went to Illinois as featured speakers at the states Professional Photographers Association convention. As if that wasn't enough, as soon as they returned, the entire studio dove right into Table Talks, a fundraiser for the Palace Theatre. Dachowski Photography sponsored and decorated a "Winter Blossoms" themed table (which, in my unbiased opinion, was quite lovely . . . you can see our handiwork below) and Jeff spent the afternoon and evening photographing the event. Phew!

Jeff, Carolle and I were so happy to contribute to the fundraiser- we love how the Palace enriches the Manchester community and were delighted to see so many people supporting the event!

Now that we're through with all of that, Jeff and Carolle are looking forward to getting back into the swing of things at the studio . . . just in time for Wedding Season!

~Abby

They're back!

After four days in Richmond, Virgina at the Professional Photographers' Convention, Jeff and Carolle are back in the studio (Abby was very lonely)!

Jeff served as a judge for the event's print competition . . . and judged over 300 submissions!

He also shared what he and Carolle have learned and achieved in studio marketing and management as a featured speaker at the convention.

(Thanks to Jim London Sanders for the images of Jeff at work!)

Tips for the Soon-To-Be-Wed!

There can be a lot of reasons to feel stressed during the days, weeks and months of planning a wedding. Between coordinating seating charts, fielding questions from family and hiring the reception band, it's easy to feel overwhelmed as you get closer to your special day. As wedding season quickly approaches, we want to share Jeff and Carolle's best tips for brides (and grooms!) during the Big Day countdown.

Practice runs are good!

The last thing you want to do is make decisions about hair and makeup two hours before walking down the aisle. Make time for a practice run with your hair stylist and makeup artist before your big day to finalize your plans. Take pictures to

reference the morning of your wedding.

Choose comfort.

A pair of beautiful and comfy shoes is well worth the investment. Your feet will thank you while you're enjoying your honeymoon . . . without blisters!

EAT.

Eat a well-balanced, protein-packed meal before you get into your dress. No exceptions. You never know how long it may be before you have time to take a bite later that day!

Designate someone as official "Day-of Decision Maker."

This person is the go-to for any minor crisis. Someone show up with a date who didn't RSVP? Does the DJ want to play Black-Eyed Peas in front of your grandmother? This person is a capable and trusted friend (not in your wedding party) who juggles it all with grace and a smile . . . and never lets on that there is a hiccup.

Trust.

You've hired your favorite caterer, a gorgeous reception hall, talented photographers (cough, cough) and a wedding coordinator to make your day memorable. Trust them to do what they do best and celebrate worry-free.

Find a private moment with your new spouse.

We can't tell you how many times we hear brides say, "I didn't see my husband for the whole reception!" In our humble opinions, this cannot, should not happen! Even if it's just for a few minutes, steal away for a bit to enjoy your first few hours of marriage.

Have fun.

It may seem totally intuitive, but having a great time is not negotiable. This is your party with your closest friends and family- all in one place. When will this ever happen again?! Relax, chat it up and dance the night away with the ones you love.

We hope this handful of recommendations helps you as you get closer to your day . . . best wishes to all!