Bon Voyage!

We're leaving for vacation tonight!

Many of you have heard that Carolle's brother was recently named Archbishop of Quebec. Well, Jeff, Carolle, their girls and the whole family are headed to Rome for an audience with the Pope and an incredible vacation in one of the most amazing cities in the world (are you jealous yet?).

"But where is Abby?" The answer is: not at the studio.

Though I usually hold down the fort when Jeff and Carolle are away, I'm skipping off to Nashville for my own little excursion. Couldn't let the bosses have ALL the fun, could I?

While we're gone, we are pleased to welcome two guest bloggers who will keep up the blog in our absence . . . we hope you enjoy reading their work!

The studio will reopen on Tuesday July 5th, after the long holiday weekend. If you need to get in touch with us, leave us a voicemail at the studio (603.626.7300).

Do's & Don't of Senior Portraits!

Are you about to embark on you final year of high school? Senior portraits are certainly on your list of "senior" things to do . . . but have you thought about the mark you want to leave when you're gone? What do you want your senior portraits to say about YOU?

Senior portraits are just the first of many landmark experiences for you in the coming months. They're supposed to be both memorable and fun. We want to guarantee you'll have great images that reflect the person you are right now- keep reading for our take on what will make your senior portrait session the best it can be . . . it may take a few minutes to read through, so stick with it to the end!

DO get your hair trimmed and touch up your color a week or so before your portraits.

DON'T experiment with a crazy new style the night before you visit us!

DO shave or trim your facial hair the morning of your portraits.

DON'T come with unkempt facial hair or a 5 o'clock shadow.

DO wear make-up like you do every day.

DON'T cake it on so that you don't look like yourself. The studio lights won't wash you out!

DO enjoy your summer, but wear sunscreen to maintain a healthy glow.

DON'T visit a tanning bed 10 times before your portrait session.

DO bring your favorite clothes, sports uniforms and formal wear.

DON'T bring just one plain white t-shirt . . . zzzzzzzzzzz.

DO avoid short-sleeved/sleeveless tops (unless you want your arms to appear bigger).

DON'T wear mini-skirts or plunging necklines.

DO remember to bring 2-3 complete outfits (more on that below).

DON'T bring clothes with busy patterns.

DO consider lots of accessories (ties, hats, jewelry, shoes).

DON'T limit yourself. If you're not sure, call us and ask!

1. Hair- We recommend making sure your hair is neat, trimmed and styled for portraits. If you color your hair, check your roots before you come in. Keep in mind that hair needs time to adjust after a cut, so give it a bit between your visit to the stylist and your session at our studio. This isn't the time to test out a crazy cut or color- you don't want to look back on your portraits and say, "what was I thinking?!" Stick with the style you're comfortable with and that is familiar to your family and friends.

2. Face- Guys, remember to keep the facial hair neat. Teen Wolf should not make an appearance at your portrait session. If you have facial hair, make sure it's trimmed. Shave that morning if you like your face bare.

Ladies, wear your make-up as you normally do. Avoid excess tanning, if you can. A healthy glow looks great, but extra visits to a tanning bed can lead to break-outs and your portraits won't look natural after you've paled a few months later.

3. Clothing- What are your favorites in your closet? Bring them! Still stumped? Here is a 'bare bones' list to help you get started:

GUYS- 2-3 tops/1-2 bottoms (slacks & jeans)

1 or more blazers, vests, sweaters and other layering pieces

GIRLS- 2-3 tops/1-2 bottoms (slacks, jeans, skirts)

1 or more blazers, vests, sweaters, dresses, etc.

Don't be afraid to think outside the box- sports uniforms, prom dresses and dance recital costumes (just to name a few) are great additions to the basics you bring.

4. Accessories- Don't forget these. It can be anything- hats, ties, jewelry, shoes . . . remember, your look should be complete from head to toe!

Last but not least: Stick with solids and keep away from busy patterns. Why? Patterns distract the eye from the most important part of the portrait- YOU! Also, you may want to avoid large brand labels on your clothing (e.g. big logos that stretch across the front of your shirt; don't worry about small ones). Your fave clothing label may be around now, but maybe not in 20 years . . . but your portraits will!

Keep in mind that photography sessions are interactive. You may be sitting on the floor, bending and even climbing on rocks outside. Consider this when picking out your clothing . . . a mini-skirt doesn't sound like such a good idea now, does it?

We highly suggest wearing 3/4 length or long sleeves for portraits. Short sleeves and sleeveless shirts can create lines that give the illusion of bigger arms. We especially recommend this to girls, who almost always want to look their slimmest. Guys, we understand if you want to enhance the results of your time at the gym, so we leave the decision to you.

Oh, and one last thing- bring your iPod!

~~~

We want you to have great memories of your session and you should be excited to show off your portraits . . . if you're a senior about to be photographed or still need to schedule a session, give us a call and ask all the questions you like. We're here to help!

603.626.7300.

We love to share precious moments.

We're constantly gushing about how privileged we feel to share the most special occasions in the lives of our clients.

Who can beat the feeling of capturing the sweetest moments of weddings, new babies, bar mitzvahs and Golden Anniversaries? We're just so lucky.

We've had quite a few clients approach us with First Holy Communions and baptisms over the years and spring is always a time when people plan for these occasions. Looking back on some of these sessions, I've been struck by how they are so

timeless, reminiscent of generations past and are a special glimpse into landmark moments in the lives of many children and parents (not to mention how much easier it is to capture beautiful images in a controlled studio . . . no competing with other cameras and proud parents after mass!). I can imagine these are portraits passed down to children and then (one day) grown grandchildren . . . how neat is that?

You can learn more about Jeff and Carolle's photography of children, infants and special events by visiting our website.

~Abby

P.S. Please remember Dachowski Photography is closed Good Friday and Easter weekend (April 23-25th). If you need to reach us, please leave us a message at (603) 626.7300 and we'll return your call when we're back in the studio. Best wishes for a blessed weekend!

Look what we found!

Oh, the things you find when searching your boss' name on YouTube. Recorded at Imaging USA in San Antonio back in January. Yeah, Jeff!

Through Jeff's Lens: The Baltimore Basilica

While passing through Baltimore, the Dachowskis paid a visit to the Baltimore Basilica- both a national historic monument and the first cathedral in America.

For all the history and architecture buffs out there, the Basilica was built from 1806-1821 and has hosted visitors such as Pope John Paul II and Blessed Teresa of Calcutta. It stands as the first cathedral in America.

Jeff and Carolle visited the Basilica the day Carolle's brother was named Archbishop of Quebec . . . Jeff remarked that the visit was especially moving on such a momentous morning.

Have you checked us out on YouTube?

We know that there isn't exactly anything new about YouTube, but we recently updated our channel with a few videos- it's now featuring seniors and weddings (plus a little tour of the studio)!

Keep a look out for more of these- especially during the spring and summer when wedding season is in full force and seniors begin to come in for their portraits. Things are about to get very busy (and very exciting) here, so visit often!

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!

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!

Pretty Friday blooms.

Here is a little peek at our Women's Expo booth over the weekend- don't those blooms just warm up your wintery Friday? Yup, that's right, we also create tissue floral arrangements!

On Sunday, Jeff and Carolle went to the Exeter Inn for their exclusive Bridal Open House. They had a great time chatting with women who are busy planning their weddings . . . it really is such a privilege to share such a special time with folks.

Thanks to the Women's Expo and The Exeter Inn for a fantastic weekend!

(Photo courtesy of Abby's cell phone. Please note this is not a practice of the studio and is limited just to our assistant.)

Women's Expo & giveaway!

Stop in to see us this weekend!

Jeff and Carolle (and Abby too!) will be at the Women's Expo at the Center of New Hampshire/Radisson Hotel Expo Center in Manchester on Saturday from 10- 4pm.

We welcome you to visit the Dachowski Photography booth; it's going to be a blast! And to make sure you're able to drop by to join the fun, we're giving away 5 Women's Expo passes. To win, simply leave a comment on our Facebook by 12 noon on the 17th (tomorrow- yikes!). The first 5 comments win!

We'll be sure to message you via Facebook to arrange a time for you to pick up your ticket, but please remember, you must be able to come by the studio no later than 5:00 pm on Friday the 18th to pick up. Good luck, everyone!

(Image courtesy of Mark Levesque)

Jeff and Carolle: Radio Stars!

Hello, all!

Switch your radio dial to WGIR AM tomorrow morning!

We're excited to share that Jeff and Carolle will be on 930/610 WGIR AM radio morning show with Charlie Sherman.



Tune on Tuesday, February 15th at 7:30 in the morning to hear them chat with Charlie. We're excited to hear them on air!

Sneak peek!

Jeff photographed an interesting session just the other day and we thought it might be fun to preview it this week.

Paul is a cigar maker and business owner who heard about Dachowski Photography from his fellow industry aficionados. Jeff was happy to help Paul create images of himself and his cigars for a future ad campaign. It was pretty neat to see Paul's passion for his craft translate through his photographs.

Thanks for stopping by, Paul!

We want YOUR comments!

The studio blog is now open for your comments . . . we welcome your positive feedback!


If you have a thought about what you see and read on our blog, we want to know! Simply click your mouse on the 'pencil' icon below each post and leave your message! As always, we are happy to personally answer specific questions about Jeff and Carolle's work- just call us at 603.626.7300.

We hope you have as much fun interacting with our blog as us!

It's time for a new Plain Jane!

Not So Plain Jane's is looking for a new Plain Jane model- are you up for it or know someone who might be?

No experience necessary! Remember, Plain Janes are friends, family and clients who get to be a model for a day. NSPJ's loves to take the everyday person and show them that everyone has the potential to look like they belong on a magazine cover. You'll be famous- you'll find fortune! Well, not quite, but it is really fun!

Send a current photo to info@notsoplainjanes.com with “The Next Plain Jane” in the subject line. If you are volunteering someone, please check with them first – no surprises, please!

Important Details:
Email a current photo- include your age and a phone number to info@notsoplainjanes.com
Must be open to a makeover, if necessary
Ages 25-55
Energetic personality (must not be camera shy!)
Must be available for photography session at our studio:
Dachowski Photography
Langer Place
55 South Commercial St.
Manchester, NH on March 29th (time to be determined).

The deadline to submit photos to NSPJ's is February 28, 2011.

You can check out our portraiture by visiting Facebook or our website.
Good luck, everyone!

A new project for Dachowski Photography.

As you may imagine, as wedding photographers, Jeff and Carolle have met many couples and photographed weddings from numerous faith traditions.

Recently, the St. Joseph Catholic Family Center produced a short video featuring some of the couples whose weddings were photographed by Jeff and Carolle. Jeff was happy to contribute the imagery for the production and also recorded the on-camera interviews at the studio.

This is a new venture for Jeff and we're all very excited about trying different things!

Here is a peek at the final result:

We like San Antonio!

Well, Jeff and Carolle are back from Imaging USA, the annual convention for the Professional Photographers of America in San Antonio, TX. We've been shouting from the rooftops about Carolle's Master degree and there are quite a few more highlights worth mentioning:

Jeff and Carolle both were awarded Photographer of the Year (second year in a row for both . . . this is Jeff's fourth).


(Carolle and Jeff- pictured bottom left and top right- pose with the other Photographer of the Year honorees.)

Jeff mentored other photographers and studio owners at the PPA Studio Management Services (SMS) booth at the Imaging trade show.


(Jeff shows off at the SMS booth . . .never short on enthusiasm, that one.)

Meeting up with friends and colleagues!


(L-R: Jeff, Carolle, Holly and Keith Howe)

And one beautiful view of the city!



Oh, and . . .

DID WE MENTION CAROLLE GOT HER MASTER'S?

(Image 2 courtesy of Heather Smith.)