Avant-Garde Images, Inc.

From the desk of the intern

2012-01-17T20:46:00.003-05:00

Hello there it's Devon again. Sadly today is the last day of my internship but before I bid Avant-Garde Images adieu, I thought I'd write one last blog post.

Yesterday Peggy and I went to the Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade downtown Naples, Florida for a photo walk with her photography club, Understand Photography.

I got to use her infrared camera which was so cool! It makes green things white and mixes up all the colors. It was a lot of fun to use. It was an old camera that Peggy had converted through this company: www.lifepixel.com .

I have had an amazing time here and I am so grateful to Peggy for everything she has taught me. It has been an awesome two weeks and I have learned so much!

Pelican Bay Photography Show and Competition

2012-01-11T21:11:00.001-05:00

Our blog followers all know that we offer photography classes at our studio under the name of "Understand Photography" here in Naples, Florida. We've had tremendous success with our photography workshops and now are offering them out in the community. We have several workshops scheduled at the Pelican Bay Foundation and two workshops at the Naples Art Association this January/February. Our workshops range from beginner to advanced, portraits to nature to artistic photography. We now have six regular photography instructors!

Check out our photography meetup site and join us - it's free to join! www.meetup.com/understandphotography
Click on CALENDAR to see our selection of workshops.

The Pelican Bay Foundation kicked off their season with a photography show and competition. Peggy put together a team of judges with different specialties:
Sara Timmons - Portraits, Landscapes and Travel
Cathy Nocera - Digital Manipulation
Gordon Campbell - Nature and Travel
Erik Keller - Photojournalism and Editorial

and of course

Peggy Farren - Portraiture

The five of us (actually six since Devon the intern tagged along) had a wonderful time perusing all the photographs that the Pelican Bay residents submitted. There are some incredible photographers in Pelican Bay! It was tough, tough, tough to make the decisions but we chose winners in each category. The next night Pelican Bay hosted a Photography Show and Peggy talked about the winning pictures and why they won.

Pelican Bay Photography Show and Competition

It was a great experience and we are looking forward to spreading the fun of photography throughout the community! Please think of us if your club would like to put together a fun photography excursion out into the Everglades or on a boat back into the 10,000 islands. We can come to your country club for basic classes too!

2012-01-09T12:04:00.000-05:00

This was a nice thing to receive in our inbox just now!!

We are so lucky to have such wonderful clients! We LOVE our weddings in Southwest Florida! Thank you for the honor of this award!!
--- Peggy and Helen

From the Desk of the Intern....

2012-01-05T14:22:00.000-05:00

Hello there, this is Devon. I'm interning here at Avant-Garde Images/Understand Photography for a couple weeks as part of my school's internship program. So far I've been here for 3 days and I've already learned a LOT. The first day I worked on the computer a bit then went over to Peggy's studio because she had to take some head shots for a bank. When we got there she showed me a little of how to use the studio lights, which was much simpler than all the internet tutorials make it out to be. It was cool to watch how she posed them, which is something I never really thought about for head shots.


One of my pictures from the Studio Model Shoot

The next day I got to work in Photoshop Elements for the first time. It was a little tricky to get the hang of but once I got going it wasn't too hard. I designed two ads that day, one for a photography trip to St. Augustine and one for image sensor cleaning. But the best part of the day was going to the studio model shoot. It was SO much fun. Each group got three turns of 6 minutes with the models. I was so excited to use the studio lights, also extremely nervous, but it ended up being really fun and not too difficult because everyone was so helpful. Some of the pictures turned out quite well and I'm very glad I got to be a part of it.

On the third day we had to get up early to go the Von Liebig Center downtown where Peggy was going to be part of a question answer session. It was really interesting to listen to all professionals there. After that we went back and I worked on editing the pictures from the model shoot. I ran some errands to the post office and to a clients house to deliver some pictures. So far I've had a great time and I can't wait for another week and a half! :)

Providence House Ad comes with a free headshot!

2011-10-08T18:16:00.000-04:00

Purchase a half page ad or larger in the 2011 Providence House Luncheon program and receive a free business portrait at Avant-Garde Images, Inc. Photography Studio. Deadline for the ad is October 21, 2011.

Providence House Naples provides faith-based, transitional housing and a self-sufficiency program for motivated single women with young children who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

Avant-Garde Images, Inc. is offering one free business headshot for each half page ad or larger purchased for the Providence House Luncheon program. Cost for the half page ad is only $250.00.

Please attend the luncheon too!! It's November 12 at St Ann Jubilee Center. Please contact Nancy at naplesprov@yahoo.com or call (239) 777-8343 to place your ad or for more info. www.ProvidenceHouseNaples.com

Fine Print - Business headshot must be scheduled on a Tuesday between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Offer expires January 30, 2012. Location: Avant-Garde Images, Inc. Studio. Value of the headshot $95.00 (Tuesday special). Call or email for appointment: 239-263-7001.

NAWP Industry Award 2011

2011-10-07T10:58:00.000-04:00

Well, this sure made me feel good!! Thanks to the National Association of Wedding Professionals!

Peggy Farren with Jessica Sigg, Naples NAWP President

The NAWP Naples Chapter Industry Awardis given to someone excels in their industry. It is someone who standsout as an example of professionalism, kindness, success, overachievement. It is someone who is involved in their industry and their community and who followsthrough. It is someone who creates/offers a dynamic product.

Jessie and Murray Album

2011-10-05T17:24:00.001-04:00

Helen just finished designing, retouching, and ordering Jessie and Murray's album. Here are a few of my favorite page spreads! Their beautiful wedding was held at Mediterra Country Club in Estero, Florida. It is an incredibly beautiful place!

We love the RED! Notice Jessie's gun in her garter! LOL!

Gorgeous and happy couple, beautiful day, beautiful surroundings, wonderful friends and family! It was fabulous!

National Association of Wedding Professionals NAWP Conference

2011-09-28T19:07:00.003-04:00

Both the photography business and the wedding business are highly competitive so the summer/early fall is the time we get educated by going to conferences, seminars, etc. The National Association of Wedding Professionals held its national conference right here at the Naples Beach Hotel this year! The kick off party was Sunday night on the Naples Princess. Wedding pros are a lot of fun!

We were shuttled from the Naples Beach Hotel to the Naples Princess via the wedding trolley by Premier Trolley Services.

The Naples Princess! Even in the rain, this boat is fabulous!

Dave and Stephanie - Along Came Stephanie Wedding Planner


Diego from the Naples Princess takes great care of us! Courtney Herrell from the Naples Zoo looks adorable.

Sara Booker from the Inn of Naples and Dina Eisenberg of Positively Wed.

My new friends from Fort Myers! Jovina and Barbara.

Chocolate covered macaroons from Roy's Hawaiian Cuisine.

El Presidente! Stuart Rosenthal

Siri Ecklund, CEO and found of Two Bright Lights

It's me, Peggy Farren, with Bill from Premier Trolley Services.

Feeling the LOVE!

2011-08-09T21:38:00.008-04:00

Thanks Jerri Lynn Merritt, of www.photographybyjerrilynn.com for the super sweet blog post!!
http://photographybyjerrilynn.blogspot.com/2011/08/naples-wedding-photographer-weddings.html

We had so much fun with our "Weddings 101 with a real "fake" wedding"! This is the second time I've taught this class and it is so much fun! Yes, I'm giving away my "secrets" but I would much rather have great competitors who bring the value of photography up! We had a mix of seasoned pros in our class, along with some photographers just getting into wedding photography.
We were so lucky to have professional makeup artist, AlexAndrea for our rain date. We got rained out at the end of our fake wedding last week so we got together again on Sunday to take more pictures at sunset. We made it to sunset and then got rained on AGAIN! But it was so much fun! And we all got the chance to practice beautiful sunset portraiture!
As Jerri Lynn says in her post - even seasoned professional photographers need to get out, learn new things and practice! It's way better to try new things on models than on a real wedding day!

Show and Tell - Photoshop Actions and Layers

2011-07-09T20:15:00.016-04:00

We host Studio Model Shoots twice a month through Photography Naples. If you have a DSLR - come on down! We will help you with your settings and it's only $19. You will have so much fun!! www.PhotographyNaples.com

We had a fabulous model last time, Jessica Stone, who is a teen singing sensation. Jessica loves to dress up and we love it to! http://jessvocalist.bandvista.com/bio/

In this post, I'm going to explain how I achieved this look. I will assume you have basic Photoshop or Elements knowledge.
Here is the retouched image:
Instructions:
1. Convert the RAW file to JPEG in Adobe Camera Raw.
2. Make a copy of the background layer.
3. Run “Portrait Pop” action. Paint eyes, lips, headress and armband with white brush.
Portrait Pop, Shannon Beauford, 9/28/08 from www.atncentral.com (This may or may not work with Elements - if not, you can skip this step).
4. Reduce top layer to 88% (portrait pop is a little intense).
5. CTL E to merge one layer down.
6. Make a new copy of that layer.
7. Use Quick Selection Tool to choose floor under model.
8. Use burn tool to darken floor.
9. Deselect and burn a bit around top of picture.
10. Make another copy of the layer.
11. Desaturate picture (SHFT – CTL – U).
12. Add a Layer mask to that layer (it's at the bottom of the Layers Palette - Elements didn't come up with this option until Version 9).
13. Paint the model with a black brush to bring the color back.
14. Paint with a white brush to fix any mistakes. I love layer masks because you can easily fix your mistakes!
15. SHFT-CTL-E to flatten layers (or go to Layers - Flatten Image)
16. Add contrast of +18.
17. Crop as a square.

Here is the original picture:
Stay tuned for more photography tips! Better yet, join our Meetup group: www.PhotographyNaples.com.

Chantal and Rob's Naples Beach Wedding

2011-06-13T22:04:00.014-04:00

Chantal and Rob had a wonderful beach wedding! We started at Chantal's parents' home. I love the birdcage veil. Chantal was incredibly beautiful!

Chantal and her sisters! Pink was the theme!

Kelly Werder from No Worries Weddings made sure every detail was wonderful!

Chantal's parents walked her to the ceremony. We had fun using our digital infrared camera for a mix of traditional and artistic photographs!

These two were laughing so much! This was a fun wedding!

Kelly Werder from No Worries Events organized AND officiated at this fun wedding!

The guests blew bubbles at the end.

More laughing as Chantal and Rob got bubbled!

Infrared is so COOL!

The handsome groom wore raspberry!

I think Chantal is happy about being married!

More laughing!

Fun with the siblings!

Gazing out to the future!

Now the families are blended together!

And Naples gave us a beautiful sunset... as usual!

Photo Contest for a MAGAZINE COVER!

2011-05-30T20:08:00.005-04:00

Photo Contest:

Neapolitan Family Magazine and Photography Naples are teaming up for a cover photo contest!!June's cover by Peggy Farren, Avant-Garde Images, Inc.

This is your chance to harness your creativity to produce a unique photo that can be used as the cover image for the July issue of Neapolitan Family Magazine! It's also your chance to get your children, your favorite relative or neighbor on the cover of the most popular parenting publication in the area.

The theme is simple: BIRTHDAYS! Set up props if you wish and then use your imagination to create a photo that shouts birthday fun. You may use any number of children in the photo but do keep in mind that the best cover photos are vertical in nature and have room for cover titles.
The following rules apply:
1. No professional photographers. This is open to amateurs only. If you have a photography website or have been paid for your photos, you are not eligible.
2. Subjects must be under 16 years old, must live in Collier County and must have clearance from a parent or legal guardian to have their photo taken. No professional models and no makeup unless it is for costuming purposes.
3. Photos must be available in high resolution as the image will be printed at a final size of 8 1/4 x 10 3/4. You may make edits to the photo and use Photoshop to alter the original.
4. The photo may not have appeared in any other media. The photo needs to be an original work created for this contest. By entering, you will be granting permission for the photo to be used on the July issue of Neapolitan Family and in subsequent promotional pieces when deemed appropriate. You also agree not to sell the photo or use the photo in any commercial capacity. You will be given permission to use the cover PDF (it will be provided to you) for your own promotional use.
5. By submitting your photo, you are granting permission for us to post your photo on both our web site and Facebook page as an entry in the contest if we so choose.
6. To enter contest: submit a lower resolution version of your photo (under 2MB) to info@neafamily.com. Include a brief description of photo including names and ages of models and your phone number.

All entries must be received by June 10 to be considered.

We will choose the winning photograph before June 15. You may enter up to 3 different photos of the same subjects but please make each photo a unique setting.
7. The winning photograph will be on the July 2011 cover of Neapolitan Family Magazine. The photographer will receive a full credit in the "on the cover" bio inside the magazine. We will also provide you with 50 copies of the magazine and a PDF of your cover. We will also post the cover and bio on our website and on our Facebook page. In addition, we may choose to enter the cover into a national Parenting Publications contest for "best cover photograph" if we feel that it is a potential award winning photo. Those entry fees will be paid for by Neapolitan Family Magazine.

Posing Class coming up June 24!

2011-05-30T19:58:00.028-04:00

I finally put together a workshop on posing! It will be held on June 24 from 6-9 p.m. Sign up soon as this will surely sell out! For more info, click http://www.photographynaples.com/events/15479888/

When I started my photography career, posing was an extremely important part of the education process. The the trend of "photojournalism" hit and posing became passe'. Well, things have come full circle and now clients want properly posed and composed images.

Here are some basic tips:
1. Eyes should be at the top line of the Rule of Thirds grid. You can crop someone's head off if their eyes are not too close to the top of the picture.
2. Never put a person straight square to the camera. Angle them slightly (also makes them look thinner).3. The masculine pose has the subject's head leaning toward the lower shoulder. This is a good pose for women too, especially business women since it is considered a "power" pose. Tilting the head to the right is considered a feminine pose and not as appealing on a man.
4. Hanging feet - cross at ankles for a more put together look.

5. With groups, heads should NOT be aligned horizontally or vertically.
6. Double chin - have the subject put their chin down and then stick their head out slightly. This will stretch the neck slightly and since a picture is two dimensional, you won't see it.
7. Move YOURSELF to get a better pose. You don't always have to move the subject.
8. Fingers should not be peaking around someone's waist or shoulder.

We'll have so much fun at the posing class. As always, our classes are HANDS-ON so you'll have the opportunity to practice! The class is limited to the first 15 who register. http://www.photographynaples.com/events/15479888/

CSN Student Interns

2011-05-20T15:15:00.006-04:00

This is Tori, I'm interning this week at Avant-Garde Images with another intern from the Community School of Naples. Tori, Peggy, and Paige at the PRACC luncheon, where Peggy gave a talk about using photography in marketing.

Paige in action at a photo shoot.

A photo we took of the model.

Tori taking photos of the model.

Raquel was great at posing and so much fun.

Paige and I spent a week with Peggy. We learned a lot and also had a great time. I never realized how much marketing went into photography. We got to do a variety of things like classes, client meetings, and photo shoots. I even got to participate in a studio session with two dogs. There's also a lot of busy work! All in all it was an eye opening experience!

Tips for Large Family Portraits

2011-04-30T22:40:00.018-04:00

One of the reasons Helen and I bring along a student on portrait sessions is to give him or her a taste of real world photography. Photographing friends and models is great fun but really doesn't teach you how to handle the many personalities and situations that come up. Managing people is a huge part of a portrait and wedding photographer's job!

Because we live in Southwest Florida, our typical family portrait will be the grandparents, their kids and spouses and all their kids. Oftentimes this is the first time the entire family is together for many years so these portraits are extremely important.

Here are some tips:

1. Do the most important portrait first. It's best to catch kids off guard. Once they get used to you, they tune you out.

2. When posing large groups, put in the smallest children last. They don't last long!

3. We give a "lecture" before we even start each portrait session.

a. Take hairbands off your wrists (why do so many women do that?)

b. Spit gum out.

c. Take all wallets and cell phones out of your pockets.

d. Adults and older kids - sit and smile! DO NOT HELP ME WITH THE LITTLE KIDS! If you help, I'll get great pictures of the little ones and scary pictures of you (and I make a contorted face for emphasis and humor!).

Please note that this is really difficult for the parents of the little ones. They want their kids to smile and look great so they have trouble not helping.

e. Have a few good things for people to say that will make their mouths look good: Cheese, Money, Disney, YES, etc.

f. The first time you ask the group to say MONEY, only a couple will. Encourage them all to -- this will help the little ones think this is something fun to do. Otherwise the little ones will only be thinking about how to escape.

g. If there are extra people or you have an assistant, instruct them to stay directly behind you or out of sight. Nothing smacks of an unprofessional portrait as having everyone looking in different directions. You need all eyes on YOU!

h. Mix it up. Say MONEY a few time, say CHEESE a few times, squeak a toy (directly above your head or lens) a few times. With little ones or pets, they tune out after about three.

One reason to have an assistant is to make sure necklaces are straight, hair all looks good, etc. They may see things that you don't.

Another reason is for candids. Everyone loves candids so the assistant can be shooting "between the shots" pictures. Your assistant can be photographing closeups of the faces of the little ones as they are running around in the background while you are photographing the smaller family groupings.

If you are a photographer who only shoots candids, please let your client know that ahead of time. You can't imagine how many reshoots I have done for clients disappointed by hiring a photojournalist instead of a portrait photographer. It's virtually impossible to get a large group of people to all look good in a candid situation.

Once we photograph the large group, we move on to the smaller family groupings. With four or five people, we can photograph those candid looking pictures that people love. We love to feel the love and connection between family members!

You can have a lot more fun and be more creative with a family with all older members.

Managing people is a huge part of a portrait and wedding photographer's job. It's a skill that is learned with education and practice.

Engagement Portrait Session Ryan & Sarah

2011-04-19T09:06:00.004-04:00

We had so much fun with Sarah and Ryan! They had such a creative idea! We took pictures of their table numbers. They'll put them in frames on each table. How cute!

And of course, we did "normal" portraits as well. It was an awesome session with an awesome couple!

Congratulations Ryan and Sarah!

Constant Contact All Star two years in a row!

2011-03-16T10:32:00.006-04:00

We’ve been named a small business All Star by Constant Contact! What an honor to be chosen among their 400,000 clients!

A BIG thank you to all our customers for reading and participating in our newsletters!

To see our newsletter archive, click here:
http://www.naplesportraits.com/content.html?page=9

How do All Stars get picked?

All Stars come in all shapes and sizes — small businesses and organizations from different industries and areas. When we choose All Stars, we look at the following criteria for success:

Communicate with customers and members for all four quarters of the year
Update mailing lists often and obtain permission from all their subscribers to contact them
Have high open and click-through rates, and low bounce rates
Use mailing list sign-up tools like "Join My Mailing List" on their website or Facebook page
Use reports to gain insights about their contact list and online marketing activities
Use our social media tools

We are thankful for happy clients!

2011-03-10T08:38:00.008-05:00

What a great way to start the day! I woke up to both of these emails in my inbox this morning! We love our wonderful clients!!!

Peggy & Helen,
Our canvas arrived today. It is just beautiful!! It couldn't be more perfect. We hung it on the wall within minutes of its arrival.
Connie received her album on Friday. She was so excited that she could hardly wait to get in touch with me. Thanks for all you did. You achieved perfection. I will show off the canvas to all my friends and pass your name along to everyone. Linda N.

Peggy:

Love the photos!

You did your usual great job!!

Thanks a million -- you’re the BEST!!!!!!!!

Elaine Hamilton United Arts Council

Tastebuds Custom Catering -- WOW!!

2011-03-06T19:29:00.010-05:00

I've had the opportunity to work with Chef Greg Shapiro with Tastebuds Custom Catering on numerous occasions so I hung out in the kitchen to watch the team in action on Saturday night. It was a black tie event with all the society people in Naples attending. Hope for Haiti is an incredibly helpful and wonderful charity founded by Naples resident JoAnne Kuehner.

Janine with the Tastebuds team goes over every detail with the wait staff. She runs through the entire night and how it will flow. The service is fabulous!

Prep, prep, prep!

The team working on an hor d' oeuvres station OUTSIDE! The kitchen was so small but that didn't slow this team down! I also had the opportunity to work with Chef Shapiro when we had that big gas shortage. Tastebuds has a wood burning stove!

Creative and delicious hor d'oeuvres were passed by the wait staff.
Country ham & Brie atop a green apple chip

Stilton endive cups with spicy pecans and Bartlet pear

Can you believe how cute the cans for the salad dressing are?
Flower Pot salad with White Truffle vinaigrette, Surryano Ham & Florida Strawberries

Chef Shapiro makes sure everything is "just so".

The Flower Pot Salad is like a work of art on the table!

These veggies look SOOOO good!

And even better on beef tenderloin.
Beef tenderloin, veg bundle, Rosemary tricolor pomme & Lardon Pearl Onions

Speed, speed, speed! Over two hundred dinners, looking and tasting fabulous went out in a matter of minutes!

And oh what a great feeling that was!!

Preparation for dessert began right away.

Raspberry biscotti cheesecake with fresh mint

http://www.tastebudscustomcatering.com

Quick Photo Tip for Harsh Lighting and More...

2011-03-02T08:43:00.005-05:00

Photography Naples and Avant-Garde Images, Inc.
Our March newsletter is out!!

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs022/1101885065385/archive/1104669764114.html

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Half Day Excursions in March - We have THREE scheduled!
Weddings, Family Portraits, Corporate and Social Events
Quick Bird Photo Tip
Studio Fashion Lighting Workshop
Poll: Are you interesting in Exhibiting your Photographic Art?
Poll: Are you interested in a Photo Contest?
Quick Portrait Tip for Harsh Lighting
Free Photography Advice
Tuesday Headshot Special
Schedule for Photography Naples classes and events
Quick Links

Poll: Sharing Art Fair Space

2011-03-01T09:00:00.003-05:00

Poll: Photo Contest

2011-03-01T08:44:00.006-05:00

Nature Excursions, Lighting and MORE!

2011-02-26T17:45:00.005-05:00

We've been working on the Photography Naples schedule for March! Remember, most classes/workshops have an early registration price. Register as soon as you can!

Two studio model shoots
Two free Photowalks
Photoshop Elements for beginners
Basic Studio Lighting - how fun to learn about the studio lights!
DSLR Operation and Exposure Basics (our most popular class)
Speedlight Workshop - back by SUPER popular demand - the first one sold out very quickly!
Sunset Portrait Workshop (our 2nd most popular class)
Fashion Lighting and Posing with Fashion Photographer Gary Trantafil
Nature Boat Cruise to Keewaydin Island at a very great price!
and we are working on more!!!
For detailed info go to our school page: www.PhotographyNaples.com

Featured Wedding Photographer Hilton Naples

2011-02-17T18:48:00.016-05:00

Please click here:
http://www.hiltonnaples.com/weddings.php

We are thrilled to be the featured wedding photographer for the Hilton Naples!!! We love the Hilton!

Paige Simpson at the Hilton planned a perfect wedding for Toni and Jim. We started at the hotel for getting ready pictures.

Then we were shuttled to the beach. It was a perfect Naples day - warm but not hot, with a nice sunset!! Toni and Jim's friends and family were so much fun! We got crazy with the formal photo session!
And back to the Hilton Naples for a fun, fun, fun reception with DJ John Caltabiano of A Sound
Sensation.

Our February Newsletter is out!

2011-02-11T21:42:00.005-05:00

Our February newsletter is out! A little late but full of info! Please let me know if you'd like us to schedule another Everglades Excursion. Feb 19 sold out immediately.

Please note at the top you can JOIN OUR MAILING LIST!

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs022/1101885065385/archive/1104370983108.html

The Everglades Excursion on February 19 sold out immediately. Please email Peggy if you would like to see another one scheduled.

Enjoy!

Real "fake" wedding pictures!

2011-01-11T11:30:00.026-05:00

Wedding Photography 101 Workshop

by Helen

Saturday, January 9th, Photography Naples was pleased to present our first "Weddings 101" Class here in Naples. It was another sold-out event, but, after the very successful day, it won't be the last time we offer this workshop!
After some important practical advice from Peggy Farren on the challenging aspects of shooting weddings and the essentials of marketing this type of photography, the group headed down to Old Naples to meet the models.

We had four Bride and Groom pairs, and were blessed with perfect weather and a pretty sunset.
There were some great results! Take a look at what some of our students came up with...

See more of the images from this class at our website, www.photographynaples.com
Well done everyone - so much fun!
Many thanks to our gorgeous models and loyal volunteers who assisted... you're each an awesome part of the Naples and Fort Myers area fastest growing photography club and school.

Interview!

2010-12-21T09:58:00.006-05:00

Peggy was recently interviewed for a popular website called "Digital-Photo-Web". Thrandur Arnthorsson is an entrepreneur who has started up several successful websites. Digital-Photo-Web is full of information about all types of photography!

Peggy talks about her style of wedding photography, some tips for starting up a wedding photography business and her school, Photography Naples.

Here is Peggy's interview:
http://www.digital-photo-web.com/peggi-farren-wedding-photographer-florida.html

Gift Certificates for Classes or Portraits

2010-12-16T16:34:00.008-05:00

Need a last minute gift idea? Our gift certificates are beautifully packaged, perfect gifts!
Ideas: A gift certificate for a portrait - Family, Child, Baby, etc. from Avant-Garde Images.
Or how about for photography classes through our school, Photography Naples?
Call us! We can get them done very quickly!
239-263-7001

Fake Problems ‘Soulless’

2010-11-19T22:35:00.000-05:00

Fake Problems video for "Soulless" premieres on MTVu today!! It's funny and a great song!

Fake Problems ‘Soulless’

Ritz-Carlton Wedding

2010-11-16T20:51:00.003-05:00

Mike and Robyn had a wonderful wedding at the Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort. It was a beautiful setting with a beautiful couple!

It was raining out in the gulf but we were lucky that it didn't come to shore!

Valarie Hoffman assisted and took this awesome picture!

Photography Naples Model Shoot

2010-11-05T18:36:00.004-04:00

I promise to blog about some of my "real" work with Avant-Garde Images soon! I photographed a wonderful wedding at the Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort this week - pictures coming soon!!

In the meantime - we had another model shoot with Photography Naples. Through our Naples photography school, we hold model shoots at least twice a month. We have so much excitement and growth in our photography group, that the top hair and makeup professionals are now helping us with our model shoots! Enjoy these few pictures from Wednesday:
Salon International: Hair by Elissa Karter, Makeup by Gabriella Verderamo
Model: Nicole Erickson

Join our club for free! www.PhotographyNaples.com "Photography Comes First".

Photography Naples Halloween Shoot

2010-10-29T21:26:00.008-04:00

We are always trying to grow our photography club so we offered a FREE Halloween shoot for photographers tonight. The more members, the more photography classes and photography workshops we can offer!
I had fun putting together the set, and then members Christine, Holly, Caroline and Helen all tweaked it. And then the kids destroyed it! It was so much fun!!!

The volunteers!

Caroline is always such a fun model!

Melinda and crew checking out the pictures they took!

Cute as a bug!

Helen came in her Halloween garb!

Join our Photography Club for free!
www.PhotographyNaples.com
Photography Comes First!

oct23sixtysecondcommercial.wmv

2010-10-11T13:50:00.000-04:00

Photographers - Model Shootout Oct 23!

2010-10-09T08:33:00.005-04:00

If you heard anything about our last model shootout, you'll sign right up for this one! We are keeping the price low so that photographers can have a fun day AND build up their portfolios!

Our theme is Senior High School Portraits. We have the COOLEST location! You'll have the opportunity to photograph a minimum of six teen models, all with different looks and different backgrounds. You can build an entire Senior Portrait portfolio in just three hours! You'll stand out from all the other photographers with the standard beach photos.

We even commissioned a graffiti artist! We'll have trains, brick walls, bars, cars and an urban grunge look!

For more info and to register: www.photographynaples.com

Check out the slideshow from our last model shootout with a "Trash the Dress" theme:

Pin Up Calendar Special October 9

2010-09-09T20:28:00.005-04:00

We are so excited to team up for glamorous hair and makeup with the fabulous David Frohmberg and Daniel Glemser from Salon International for a Pin-Up day!

Your man will LOVE a pinup calendar or a more private, hard cover book of YOU as a gorgeous pin up model! If you are trying to think of a great holiday present, this is it!!

We are having a super special on Saturday, October 9 that includes hair, makeup and 12 retouched images in a calendar. You'll have the opportunity for four clothing changes with three different looks per calendar (closeup/angle/full shot each outfit).
We are only taking on a very limited number of women so reserve your spot as soon as possible.
Special rate of only $500 includes:
Hair AND makeup by the incredible duo David Frohmberg and Daniel Glemser at Salon International.
A two minute drive takes you to Avant-Garde Images studio.

We'll include mimosas and snacks to make the entire event a fun and memorable experience!
Included in the price is a beautiful calendar with 12 retouched images of you!
* Or upgrade to a leather hard cover book with 20 images for an extra $100.00.

Plan a girls' day of it! Each session will take about three hours from the beginning of hair and makeup to the finish of the photography session.

Please call or email Peggy to sign up!
naplesportraits@gmail.com
(239) 263-7001 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (239) 263-7001

Check out my @constantcontact newsletter

2010-09-09T20:27:00.000-04:00

Check out my @constantcontact newsletter

Trash the Dress Model Shootout = Success!

2010-09-06T16:59:00.014-04:00

We had the best time at the Trash the Dress model shootout!

Read about us in the Naples Daily News: http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2010/aug/30/bride-wore-white-and-mud-trash-dress-photo-shoot-g/

And Florida Weekly: http://naples.floridaweekly.com//news/2010-09-02/Top_News/Here_come_the_brides_there_go_the_gowns.html

Photo Credit: Valarie Hoffman

Photo Credit: Mary Lina Ives

Photo Credit: Valarie Hoffman

We had to change locations and Unity of Naples came through for us with their beautiful grounds. We had 36 photographers and 15 models.

Here are my snapshots; I had no time for any "real" images:

We are already working on our next model shootout. It will be a Senior High School portrait theme in an urban environment. It's going to be even better than Trash the Dress!! What a fun way to build up your portfolio!
Sign up on our Photography Naples site -www.meetup.com/photography-naples to stay updated on photography classes in Naples, free walkabouts, model shootouts and photography excursions.
Or Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/photographynaples

Another Trash the Dress station

2010-08-03T09:16:00.001-04:00

http://www.meetup.com/Photography-Naples/calendar/14257360/

Portfolio Building - Trash the Dress - Aug 28

2010-08-01T20:46:00.006-04:00

Photographers, aspiring photographers and photography students -

Here is an incredible opportunity to expand your portfolio! Take pictures that look like they belong in a magazine.

Trash the Dress is a fun trend in the wedding industry. After the wedding, brides pay $100 to $500 on average to have a crazy photo session with their wedding gown. The bride feels like a model and gets stunning pictures - the photographer gets awesome portfolio images!

Saturday, August 28, we'll give you the opportunity for only $30. This is our first model shootout so we are keeping the price very low for our photographers.

www.meetup.com/photography-naples

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. We'll have six or more "stations" plus some of the models can be led around the property.
We'll schedule photographers every two hours so everyone has plenty of time to get a variety of pictures and with different models.

Most of the area is shaded for controlled lighting.

$30 early registration until August 18
$45 August 19-28

Parking at Naples Horse Stalls and then it's a short walk. There is a pond, a mud area, a river rock path, a line of palm trees - it's just GORGEOUS!
More info as we get it.

Please note these images were taken with my little point and shoot. Here are a couple pics from the location:

And the winners are.....

2010-06-09T17:49:00.003-04:00

Drum roll..... 1st Place: Angie DeNease Seaman with 247 referrals
2nd Place: Melinda Nagy Otero with 50 and
3rd Place: Jennifer Gill with 30.
Congratulations to the winners and thank you everybody that participated!!

You can still "Like" our Photography Naples group on Facebook: www.facebook.com/photographynaples
or join our club for free:
www.meetup.com/photography-naples

Thanks to everyone for helping us grow our club and school!!
Peggy

It's YOUR turn to win big!

2010-06-01T20:19:00.009-04:00

Help Us Find Facebook Fans and Win Big!

All you have to do is ask your Facebook friends to become a fan of Photography Naples Club and School.
When they fan us, ask them to post your name as their referral. The fan who has the most referrals from now through June 8, 2010 at midnight wins!

You'll receive a prize package that includes: a $130 gift certificate to Sophia's Restaurant and a photo session either in the studio or on location in Naples, including one finished 8x10 portrait. This package has a value of $455! Wow!!!

Second and third place will receive $45 gift certificates - good toward any class or workshop through Photography Naples or toward a Photo Session with Avant-Garde Images.

Fine Print: Gift Certificates are good through September 30, 2010

Cut and paste this message on your Facebook page to get you started:

Help me win a $455 prize package from Photography Naples Club and School.
Just fan Photography Naples by clicking http://www.facebook.com/photographynaples. Be sure to post my name on the wall so I get credit.
Thanks for your help!

Peggy wins the Cadillac of Test Drives - Thanks to YOU!

2010-05-24T12:18:00.007-04:00

Devoe Cadillac donates $500 to Hope for Haiti!
Devoe Cadillac sponsored a social media contest called "The Cadillac of Test Drives". Influential women drove a brand new Cadillac SRX Crossover for 48 hours and blogged about their experiences. The blogger with the most votes won $500 to the charity of their choice!

Thanks to all of you who voted every day, Peggy Farren with Avant-Garde Images, Inc. Photography Studio garnered almost 1500 votes! Peggy's charity of choice was Hope for Haiti, due to the dire situation in Haiti from the catastrophic earthquake in January of this year. Peggy Farren, Avant-Garde Images, Inc., Elizabeth Davison, Hope for Haiti, Mark Klahm and Emily Lopez with Devoe Cadillac

Elizabeth Davison, Executive Director Hope for Haiti

Yay! $500 to Hope for Haiti! Every bit helps.

I was impressed by this sign.

This is a Cadillac SRX Crossover. It was SOOOOOO much fun to drive!

Please vote daily until April 4

2010-03-27T15:46:00.001-04:00

http://www.cadillacoftestdrives.com/dealers/influencer.php?cn=naplesportraits

If I win the most blog votes in this area, Hope for Haiti will get $500. THANK YOU!! Please pass this link on to your friends.

Hope for Haiti needs help!

2010-03-26T22:14:00.003-04:00

After the tragic earthquake, donations came on strong for about a month and then slowed down dramatically. Please donate to Hope for Haiti whatever you can. It's rainy season down there and a MILLION people are homeless. Can you imagine living in mud all the time and never getting the chance to dry off?

Help me win $500 for Hope for Haiti. Just vote for my blog on the Cadillac of Test Drives once every day from now until April 4.
Here is the link: http://www.cadillacoftestdrives.com/dealers/influencer.php?cn=naplesportraits

I'm having fun driving a brand new Cadillac SRX, courtesy of Devoe Cadillac here in Naples. I drive for two days, and blog for 14 days. The blogger with the most votes wins $500 to the charity of their choice.
Here's the link again: http://www.cadillacoftestdrives.com/dealers/influencer.php?cn=naplesportraits

Our new ad for Florida Weekly

2010-03-04T18:44:00.002-05:00

I posted this ad on my Facebook page and asked for feedback. Most of it is negative! Too busy!

How can I convey all the different workshops we are offering? Our target clients are so diverse! We are offering beginner classes for non-photographers such as : Food photography for the restaurateur, Interiors and Exteriors for the Real Estate Professional. We are offering photography classes and classes on all the photography software. People photography, still life, nature, macro! For beginners to professionals. SO MUCH we have going on!Become a fan on Facebook and give me your feedback. Our new school ROCKS and input from all of you will only make it better!
www.facebook.com/photographynaples

A few hours off work!

2010-03-01T17:03:00.005-05:00

My mother and son gave me a gift certificate for a massage for my birthday. Today I cashed it in!

Eisa Lindner has the most pleasant personality and the greatest massage hands! Sorry fellas - she only works on women! (239) 595-4073 mothernurt@yahoo.com
This Naples Photographer needed to relax! I feel so much better and now I'm back to work!

Ooh la la!

2010-02-27T23:27:00.003-05:00

I'm working on the pictures from today's pin up party! We had so much fun!

Tonight's event

2010-02-27T22:48:00.004-05:00

Tonight's job was out of this world!

Ring around the Moon!

2010-02-26T21:26:00.004-05:00

I've never seen anything like this. I had to get my fisheye lens out to capture the entire ring.
I found this explanation at www.farmersalmanac.com:

Ring Around the Moon

While stargazing, have you ever noticed a large circular band of light surrounding the moon? If so, you have seen a lunar halo.

A lunar halo is caused by the refraction, reflection, and dispersion of light through ice particles suspended within thin, wispy, high altitude cirrus or cirrostratus clouds. As light passes through these hexagon-shaped ice crystals, it is bent at a 22 degree angle, creating a halo 22 degrees in radius (or 44 degrees in diameter). A double halo, sometimes with spokes, may be seen on rare occasions when light reflects off water or ice.

The prism effect of light passing through these six-sided ice crystals separates the light into its various colors, resulting in a halo tinged with very pale rainbow colors with red on the inside and blue on the outside. The phenomenon of a lunar halo is similar to a rainbow produced by sunlight and rain falling between your eye and the sun.

Weather lore says a lunar halo is the precursor of impending unsettled weather, especially during the winter months. This is often proved true, as cirrus and cirrostratus clouds generally precede rain and storm systems.

Lunar halos are, in fact, actually fairly common. So watch the night sky – and keep the umbrella handy.

Ashlynn's Maternity Session

2010-02-05T22:56:00.003-05:00

We had a lovely model for one of our photography studio sessions. We host practice sessions for professional and amateur photographers in our studio on the first and third Wednesdays every month. Ashlynn is one of our photographers! She should have that baby any day now!

Here are a few of my portraits from that night:

If you are interested in taking your photography skills to the next level, join our Meetup group:

www.meetup.com/photography-naples

Repeat clients and referrals!

2010-02-05T17:36:00.005-05:00

Four years ago, I was referred a wedding by Weddings by Phyllis. Chris and Cindy came from the north to have a beautiful beach wedding on Marco Island. Instead they had a monsoon on their wedding day in November of 2005! We made it fun by borrowing the yellow slickers from the valet guys at the Marco Hilton and captured the crazy, windy, rainy day in a fun way!

Four years later, it was family reunion time on Captiva Island.

Chris and Cindy

Extended Family

Now it's time for niece Lauren to get married! Stay tuned for pictures from Lauren and Jon's April 3 wedding at the fabulous White Orchid in Fort Myers!

We work hard to make our clients happy and to keep them coming back!
Every client should turn into a client for life!!

The photography classes and club

2010-02-02T21:44:00.005-05:00

I've been working on so many things that I haven't had a spare minute! Tonight we hosted an event for professional photographers. Stan Reedy from Reedy Photoprocess came down from St Petersburg, FL to show some of the Reedy products and the quality of their photographic prints. Using a professional lab is an absolute for great images.
It was fun, educational and a great networking opportunity! And I didn't take one picture! I meant to but I was busy chatting away!

Saturday was our Sunset Portrait class. It was two hours of class work then on to the beach. My studio is only 10 minutes from my favorite beach! The students had lots of fun - even though we didn't have a sunset. But it didn't rain so we were lucky. We had four lovely young women modeling for us. Thanks to the students who said all those nice things about the class on the Meetup site! www.meetup.com/photography-naples

Bayshore Festival of the Arts

2010-01-24T16:49:00.004-05:00

My first art fair!
The Bayshore Festival of the Arts was held this past Saturday. Over 2000 people attended! It was my first time displaying some of my art pieces and I actually sold three pieces! I was thrilled! The three prints I sold are below.
I also displayed several portraits and promoted our new photography school. All in all, it was a great day!

2010-01-24T16:33:00.002-05:00

I photograph a lot of events lately! This one was pretty cool - Governor Charlie Crist did the ribbon cutting for the new pedestrian bridge at Rookery Bay. The bridge over Henderson Creek connects Rookery Bay's Environmental Learning Center to two miles of nature trails.

Bayshore Festival of the Arts Sat Jan 23

2010-01-15T17:20:00.007-05:00

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free
Saturday, January 23, 2010

Avant-Garde Images will be exhibiting!

This is a free event for the whole family. Come listen to great music, check out the local artists and eat!

And speaking of great music, after the festival, come rock out at South Street to Fake Problems!

Check out Fake Problems music at www.myspace.com/fakeproblems

Our New Photography Club and Workshops

2010-01-10T15:46:00.009-05:00

www.meetup.com/naples-photography

I started a photography club in the beginning of December and wow - it has really taken off! We have 71 members as of this writing. Photography is so much fun and fun to learn about too!
We are now offering workshops to learn photography. This month January 27th is Photography Fundamentals and January 30th is Beach Sunset Portraiture. See our Meetup site for details. Please register while you are there! It's free to join our group!
www.meetup.com/naples-photography

We began with "Meetups" in my studio on Linwood Ave.
Our adult Meetup is held on the first and third Wednesdays and our Teen Meetup is the second Wednesday of each month. We meet from 6:15-8:15 p.m. and practice studio photography. Cost is only $15 to attend a Meetup.

We limit the number of participants to ten so everyone has an opportunity to use the studio lights and photograph. Plus we want the group to stay friendly, willing to share and helpful. We have all levels of photographers from beginners to several professionals. So if you are interested, sign up early. We will probably add more Meetups as we get going but for now, they are only twice a month for adults, once a month for teens.

We generally have a model. This is a great place for photographers, models, hair and makeup professionals to build up their portfolios.

Our model was Casie this past week. She was awesome! We worked on dramatic lighting. There were four professional photographers at this Meetup so everyone learned a lot!

After this week's Meetup, five of us dressed up like pirates and walked over to the English Pub. Wednesday is Pirate Night and pirates get half off their tab!!

It's free to sign up for the Meetup group. Once you are registered, you'll get updates on classes, workshops and Meetups. I hope to see you there!
Peggy Farren
www.meetup.com/naples-photography

Life in perspective

2009-12-09T16:05:00.005-05:00

I'm stressing over getting all this work done and got an email just now that made me sit back for a minute and count my blessings.
We had a wonderful newborn session last year with Ava. She died at six weeks old. Her mom just sent me another thank you for the pictures. I can't imagine what these wonderful young parents must still be going through. I'm grateful that I was able to capture Ava in all her beauty.

Photo timeline

2009-12-06T21:33:00.005-05:00

It's our busiest time of year! I thought I'd better give a quick update as far as pictures go. Our absolute deadline for ordering pictures for Christmas delivery has passed. We are working as much overtime as we possibly can to get all pictures retouched and delivered.

We are continuing to offer gift certificates for holiday gifts.

We are working on orders in the order they come in. We love ALL of our clients so we tried to treat everyone as fairly as we can. If you would like your pictures pushed ahead of our other wonderful clients, please know there will be a rush charge.

We are so thankful for all the business! Please note that the normal time frame from the date of order to the date of delivery is three to four weeks.

All holiday card images ordered before the November 20th deadline were pushed ahead of normal orders. So now we have several orders to catch up on. We meticulously retouch each image and it's a time consuming process. Our lab is not a one-hour consumer lab so it takes a few days to a few weeks to process the orders and get them delivered. We hope each portrait turns into a family heirloom!

Thanks for your patience!

Peggy and Helen

2009-10-18T23:24:00.007-04:00

Marco Island Wedding
Sarah and Will were the sweetest people! Their wedding on Marco Island was just beautiful!
Phyllis (www.weddingsbyphyllis.net) was the officiant. She always does such a beautiful ceremony.
Sarah was just striking as a bride!
These two were SOOOOO in love!

We had a gorgeous afterglow on the back bay!

Sparklers! These were so cool. They burned for four minutes so we had time for some great pictures.

Bridal bowling

2009-09-27T10:56:00.004-04:00

Avant-Garde Images participated in the WPPN Bridal Bowl fundraiser on Saturday. The Bridal Bowl raised money for the Shelter for Abused Women.
I won a prize for the biggest bow!

I forget the name of the Inn on Fifth/Naples Transportation team. But the theme was Shotgun Wedding! SOOOOO funny!

And of course the bride and her bridesmaids! Most of these women are the catering managers at all the high-end resorts in town. You want a sophisticated wedding; right?
Options thrift store donated the bridal gown that Dale is wearing. We women LOVE to dress up!

Peggy and Helen! Avant-Garde Images women at work!

Senior Katie

2009-09-27T10:27:00.002-04:00

I love photographing senior high students!
Katie and I had so much fun! We played music (of course a lot Fake Problems but I let her play her own music too). Katie brought tons of clothes and props and we took lots of pictures!

Maternity Portrait

2009-09-27T10:20:00.003-04:00

Maternity portraits are so special! Rebecca and Brandon have been together since they were in high school and are now expanding their family. Expanding... get it? See Rebecca's belly?
Okay, bad joke!I love the way Rebecca and Brandon interact with each other. I love putting together storyboards of portraits to show the love and connection between family members. These two are so adorable!

Senior Portrait

2009-09-19T21:29:00.003-04:00

Sammie came in to the studio for her senior portrait session. We had so much fun! It's always a great idea to bring a friend. You may recognize Justine!
She's my famous underwater model. Her hair's a bit different now!

The necklaces were Sammie's idea. How cute!

The fan is a necessity!

Glamour girl!

Sisters!

2009-09-19T11:32:00.003-04:00

Just a sneak peak from a couple of really cute sisters!

2009-09-09T13:34:00.007-04:00

We've been nominated as an inspirational small business!
Please take two minutes to endorse us. We need 50 endorsements to qualify.

It's a little confusing to endorse us. We are already nominated so you won't need our address. Here are step by step instructions to endorse us. Thank you all so much for your support!

You'll have to register first:

Click here: Register
Fill out your name, make up a user name, address, phone, etc.

For the terms, you have to scroll and scroll all the way to the end of the terms or it won't let you accept them. Accept the terms and you should be registered.

THEN you have to go back to my part:
http://shinealight.ivillage.com/sbo-profile/?ProfileID=6221
Click on Endorse Now (again) and that's it.

A Few Recent Weddings

2009-09-07T17:47:00.008-04:00

High School Sweethearts Wes and Katie
had a sweet and touching beach wedding.
Katie is just stunning!
The two of them were really fun!

Wes and Katie were just so happy! Kelly Werder with No Worries Weddings
made sure everything went smoothly. It's always a joy to work with Kelly!

Danielle and Brian lucked out! They got married on the beach and it was beautiful. Right after the ceremony, however, it rained! We came prepared with props! Danielle and Brian look adorable with our rainbow umbrella.

Helen took this awesome picture!

Inside the Inn on Fifth. Oh my goodness! The Inn on Fifth is so GORGEOUS!

Brady Bunch at the Naples Beach Hotel!
Tracy and Harry blended their two families together at an awesome ceremony on the beach. The weather was incredible, the guests were lots of fun, the Naples Beach Hotel had outstanding service, and the family looked terrific!

Besides the big family portrait, Tracey took advantage of our Canvas Cluster sale, which is still going on! Each canvas is stretched around a frame for a clean look. The clusters are meant to hang one inch apart. This is Cluster 4, which is great for a moderate size wall.
Total wall space is 34x32 inches.

Cluster 6 is for a larger wall. Total wall space is 45x24 inches.

Wall portraits are such a fabulous way to decorate your home. I LOVE the portrait of my son and me. I hug it when I walk by! There is no art piece that can compete with fabulous portraits of your family!

New Holiday Card Templates!

2009-09-05T13:40:00.002-04:00

Greeting cards are on special during September!
Receive 10 free cards with every 25 cards ordered (same card)

This special absolutely expires September 30th. You must choose your card and sign off on the design by September 28, 2009. The cards must be paid for by September 30, 2009.
AvantGarde Holiday 2009

Clearance Sale - Frames, Folios, Albums

2009-08-29T13:56:00.004-04:00

Studio Cleaning!!
How do I accumulate so much stuff? I buy things impulsively and then have no room to store everything!
I have several items on sale. I've put everything in the projection room so please stop by in the next two weeks to look through everything. First come, first served!

Call first 239-263-7001 to make sure someone is here. Everything is priced at less than what I paid for them!

Frames:
5x5, 8x8, 8x10, 11x14, 12x12, 16x20 Variety of colors and designs
20x30 (two light colored wood available)
24x30 barnwood frames (three available)
24x30 variety of frames

Sale frames alone range from $5 to $75.
If you've ever checked frame prices, you know those are ridiculously low prices!
If you purchase a print to go inside the frame, they are discounted even more.

The black, pink and blue photo bags are only $5 each.
This briefcase will hold a beautiful wedding album. Regular price $150, Sale price $55We have odd sizes and shaped frames too. We can put in a custom sized portrait.

The cat is not for sale.I also have folios and small albums on sale.

Sorry! No shipping is available. I love all my out of town clients, but the labor to package and the shipping costs will just be too much.

So local clients - swing by! Call first 263-7001.
Peggy Farren

Pregnant with TWINS!

2009-07-04T15:04:00.006-04:00

Time for something new. It seems like all I've posted lately are underwater photos! Don't forget to schedule your appointment for our underwater special next week.

Magela definitely has that beautiful pregnant glow. She and her husband have one beautiful child and have two more on the way. We had such a great maternity session!

Benjamin is the proud big brother!

Purple on black is so cool!

I've been fooling around with a lot of Photoshop techniques.

The family!

Magela's hair was so cooperative with the fan blowing it back.

Black and white with just a touch of brown:

Fake Problems Underwater

2009-06-20T14:54:00.005-04:00

What a crazy underwater session today with the band, Fake Problems!

Check out Fake Problems' music at www.myspace.com/fakeproblems.

Fake Problems will be touring the US and Canada this summer, starting next week. Their live show is really really fun!

They are filming another music video on Tuesday so keep checking their Myspace to see it!

Senior Underwater Portraits!

2009-06-08T20:06:00.012-04:00

Pretty Justine is a 2010 senior. We had her senior portrait session in the studio and then decided to try some underwater photography in my pool!

Here is what Helen does at work:

Teen Photo Workshops June 13-July 11

2009-06-01T19:14:00.007-04:00

Professional Portrait and Fashion Photographer Peggy Farren of Avant-Garde Images, Inc. will hold a series of workshops for teenagers this summer. Peggy's photographs have graced the covers and insides of both local, national and now recently, international magazines!

Saturdays from 1:00 to 4:30 p.m.
Various Locations
Come to one or all four!
Price: $45 each or $150 for all four
For teens ages 15-18
*** Limited to six students. Sign up quickly!
Bring your own camera. Any digital camera will do - it's the photographer, not the camera!

Call 263-7001 or email info@naplesportraits.com.

June 13: Posing @ Avant-Garde studio (we may leave for a location shoot)
June 20: Lighting @ Cambier Park
June 27: Composition and Creativity @ Third St S
July 11: Basic Studio Lighting @ Avant-Garde studio
* Locations may change but most will start and finish at Avant-Garde studio on Linwood Ave.

This is a hands on workshop. You'll have an opportunity to photograph, light and pose the models. We'll end each workshop with a slideshow and critique. I know the critique part is scary - but it's a great way to learn!

Call to sign up today! If there is enough interest, we may offer this same set of workshops on a weeknight.
(239) 263-7001
info@naplesportraits.com

Pin Ups!

2009-05-28T00:10:00.005-04:00

My favorites from today's pin up session!!

I love props!

2009-05-20T15:29:00.004-04:00

The original intention for the chest and wheel were for our retro pin-up sessions.
But look how cute baby Abigail is with them!

But then again, look at Lisa during her retro-pin up session!

Marco Island beach wedding

2009-05-20T11:21:00.017-04:00

Okay, my blogging is going to be all out of order. I just finished going through the proofs of this wedding so I want to share some of the pictures.

Mary, Colby and baby Theo.
Mary and Colby got married on Marco Island.

Weddings by Phyllis. Phyllis has so many nice touches to her ceremony. I love the way she gives the couple the marriage license.

Mom and Dad - still so in love!

Colby and Mary met while acting in a play together. They were so gorgeous and so much fun. And, as actors, they were great at posing for the camera!

The sky was so beautiful. It was raining off in the distance.

I never get tired of this pose. Look how huge the sun is!

Inside the condo lobby.

Silly married people!

Tammy and Steve-O

2009-05-16T11:38:00.030-04:00

Tammy and Steve are a really fun and sweet couple!
Steve texted Tammy a few hours before the wedding:

St William's has beautiful stained glass.
The reception was held at Wyndemere Country Club.
The flower girl and ring bearer found a baby bunny!

What a beautiful day! Tammy and Dad arriving at the church.

St William's has beautiful stained glass.
The reception was held at Wyndemyre Country Club.
The flower girl and ring bearer found a baby bunny!

I love the bridesmaids' dresses! The color just popped in the pictures.

Sometimes we get lucky! The wind blew Tammy veil up at the perfect moment!

Walking back to the club. I love shooting frame within the frame!

Mom taking a much needed break. She worked so hard on this wedding!

The introductions were so funny!
Everyone came in dancing!

Helen photographed this closeup during the first dance.

Tammy's brother sang for the father daughter dance.
It was so touching!

Tammy and her dad!

Steve and his mom. I feel the love!

We are always trying to thinking of new ring shots.

It's a good idea to invite your hairstylist to your wedding. Mark Borg of Spada Salon and Day Spa in Fort Myers touched up Tammy's hair during the reception. He is a good friend of Tammy's and an incredible stylist!

Wyndemere's foyer was a beautiful spot for a few more formal pictures. Tammy was such a gorgeous, gorgeous bride!

Tammy's brother built this beautiful backdrop to the sweetheart table.
There were so many personal touches to this wedding that made it so special.
Thanks for including us in your special day.
Congratulations Tammy and Steve!

Peggy and Helen

St. William Catholic Church, Father Ray Hughes, Janet Mitchell wedding coordinator
Driftwood Garden Center - Carly Dennis floral designer
Gown - Anjolique from Tie the Knot
Wyndemere Country Club, banquet manager Rick Reed
Spada Salon and Spa (Fort Myers) Mark Borg
George the DJ
Elite Limo

Lots of kids this week!

2009-04-14T14:37:00.007-04:00

Just a few pictures from sessions this past week. I'm still working on all the proofs.
My good friend and mentor, Sara, is helping me with retouching the orders. Helen will be back on Thursday so progress is being made!!

Another busy week!

2009-03-20T08:39:00.013-04:00

Sometimes I still can't believe how lucky I am to live here!
A dolphin came to visit during our family portrait session yesterday morning.
This family was so much fun!
I had a fun studio session with two year old Sophia and last night
I photographed a Mardi Gras Party!

Newborn Christopher

2009-03-16T23:05:00.004-04:00

I changed the blog back because the big pictures were too much work!
I will add the spring specials in the next couple days so stay tuned!

I'm steadily catching up on all the proofs from the past week!

Here are a few pictures of newborn Christopher!

working on the blog

2009-03-03T21:31:00.007-05:00

I love the blogs with the huge pictures so I've been working on it. It wasn't clear on the blogger website so I did a search and learned to change the html. I never dreamed I'd be changing html!! I'll be updating the blog with the March special in the next few day so keep checking back!
Peggy

Fairy Special Feb 25-28

2009-02-13T08:47:00.007-05:00

Avant-Garde Images has so many exciting new projects!
We will have themed portraits several times this year - at discounted prices!

February 25 through February 28 will be FAIRIES!! Our fairy sets are so popular!

The session is only $99 AND you'll receive a 20% discount off any portraits ordered before March 31, 2009.

Each additional subject is $25. Mom - you can get in this picture! We have grown up sized wings. :) Or how about Fido? He'd be so cute as a fairy dog!

We'll also have little bug costumes for boys. Can't you picture your little sweetie as a bumble bee in a forest setting?

Call for your appointment today! We have very limited appointments for this special.
(239) 263-7001 or email info@naplesportraits.com.

Senior High Portrait Party

2009-02-08T22:38:00.021-05:00

Invite four to six of your friends and save money on your senior portraits! Plus you'll have SO MUCH FUN! You can earn a free session and free pictures. Or just save money by participating. Either way, you'll save money, have a great time and get fabulous portraits!

Call or email for more information! (239) 263-7001 or info@naplesportraits.com

Getting ready for the Valentine's Special

2009-01-24T20:11:00.010-05:00

We still have a few openings on Saturday afternoon (January 31st) for our Valentine's Special!
We brought red and pink props and fabrics over to the studio in anticipation of our fun Valentine's portraits! $125 includes a short session with a framed 8x10 portrait.
Call today to book one of the few remaining sessions: (239) 263-7001

Valentine's Special January 27-30

2009-01-02T13:22:00.008-05:00

Looking for that special gift for your Valentine? How about a stunning portrait of yourself, your kids or the dog!?
We're having a studio special! $125 includes a short session with a framed 8x10 portrait!
White backdrop in our studio on Linwood Ave.
Short session (one outfit, 20 minutes or so),
up to three people and/or pets (add $25 per extra person or pet).
At the session, you'll have your choice of selected beautiful 8x10 frames.
The best image will be given to you in the frame you choose.
Call or email for your appointment! This special is available for only five days; January 27 through the 31st, 2009. Call Helen or Peggy 239-263-7001

Here are some pictures from our recent ads (beach sessions are extra). Click on the picture to enlarge it:

*Cannot be combined with other specials.
** Other products and print sizes are available too!

Gift Certificate Special

2008-12-02T15:05:00.002-05:00

Gift Certificate Special
Holiday gift giving is so difficult sometimes! What do you buy for those who already have everything they need?

Portraits make fabulous gifts!

15% Discount
off of Gift Certificates valued at $300 and up.
Must be purchased December 1 through December 22, 2008
Cannot be combined with other offers.
Gift Certificates are valid all through 2009
These gift certificates can go toward the session fees and portrait prints.

They are redeemable starting in January.

Not redeemable on weddings.

We package them beautifully so you can just present the gift certificate as is. Call today!

239-263-7001.

V-Bot

2008-11-25T23:07:00.005-05:00

I've been SO swamped lately that it's been tough to blog! But today I got a new robot vacuum so I have the need to share!! When I moved, I brought the two stray cats with me and made them indoor cats. So keeping up with the cat hair has been impossible. I ordered the V-bot from Amazon.com for less than $70.

The cats don't care for it but so far I LOVE IT!!!

I'll upload pictures to some of the recent sessions soon. It's definitely family portrait season and I've also had more weddings and corporate events than usual. We ran another studio special in November so things are really hopping here at Avant-Garde Images!

Keep your eyes open for a new special that starts December 1st. Think Holiday Gifts.......

In other news, my son's band, Fake Problems, signed with a new record label called "Side One Dummy". The single "The Dream Team" will be officially released on January 20th but you can hear it on their MySpace now: www.myspace.com/fakeproblems.

$99 MiniSessions for a VERY limited time

2008-11-06T21:35:00.011-05:00

Studio mini-sessions will be held for six days only; Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, November 11, 12, 13 and 18, 19, 20.

Please call 239-263-7001 for an appointment. Late afternoons and evening appointments are available.

The $99 Minisession includes one 8x10 and two 5x7s of the same image.
Please arrive dressed and ready. Each minisession will last about 15 minutes.
We'll use our seamless white background and have some simple props available.
Up to four people/pets. $25 each additional person.

Portraits make fabulous gifts! Call to schedule!

239-263-7001

United Arts Council

2008-10-25T12:52:00.003-04:00

My job as the cover photographer for Southwest Florida Retiree magazine allows me to photograph such interesting people! Look for these local famous people on the November cover!
Annabelle Johnson - Naples Artcrafters, Elaine Hamilton - United Arts Council Ginamarie Pugliese - Naples Art Association, Jim Rideoutte - Naples Players.

So many pictures!

2008-10-08T22:18:00.007-04:00

I love newborns! Here are three generations of beautiful women:

Sexy and sweet Jim and Christen at the engagement session on their engagement day!
Lori and Chad had a gorgeous beach wedding!

And here are a few of our fairies!

And now it's Family Portrait Season. Schedule yours now!

Dinosaur Playground Exhibit

2008-10-05T10:00:00.003-04:00

Dinosaur Playground has allowed us to display an exhibit of some of our portraits in their awesome parent room! Check out the pictures to see if YOU are in any of them!

http://www.dinoplayground.com/ Dinosaur Playground is an indoor playground for kids. The parent room has a monitoring station so you can watch your child while you sit in a nice relaxing room with leather couches and a big TV! You can also rent Dinosaur Playground for birthday parties. How fun!!

Fairy Special, Operation Smile

2008-09-19T08:56:00.011-04:00

Next weekend is our popular Fairy Special! There are still openings! $99 includes a minisession, one 8x10 and two 5x7s. Call or email Peggy today to reserve your date and time. Friday and Saturday, September 26 and 27.
Last week we sent out letters to area dentists to see if they would help promote our fundraising effort for Operation Smile. Not only have many dentists allowed us to display information, but Dr. Cheryl Malick of Dental Excellence http://naplesdentalexcellence.com/ donated $240 to the cover the entire cost of one cleft palette surgery! Thanks Dr. Malick! Check out our sidebar to the right of this post or www.familyportraitmonth.com.
Here are a couple pictures from sessions this week:

The big flood

2008-09-14T10:17:00.003-04:00

Condo living!
My next door neighbor's pipe burst so my entire studio flooded Saturday afternoon.
I rescheduled my afternoon appointment, bought a Shop-Vac and spent five hours
cleaning up the mess. This is one way to really get a thorough cleaning! I moved all the furniture, the big vinyl backdrop and threw away the carpet padding to clean and dry everything. I feel so badly for real flood victims. I can't imagine if this happened at my home.

October is Family Portrait Month!

2008-09-10T09:21:00.010-04:00

This October, Avant-Garde Images, Inc. Portrait Studio will participate with an elite group of photographers around the country in a very special family portrait promotion. This national fundraising effort will benefit Operation Smile, which treats children around the world who suffer with cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities.

Avant-Garde Images, Inc. has pledged to contribute 25% ($50) of each October family portrait session to PPA Charities, which has chosen Operation Smile as its charitable partner. October is an ideal time for families to have their portraits created, because the holiday season is just around the corner. Few gifts are appreciated as much a portraits of family members. And when families participate in Family Portrait Month, they are making it possible to truly change the lives of children who would otherwise face a lifetime of pain and rejection.

Call Peggy today to schedule your family portrait! (239) 263-7001

Nikki's Bat Mitzvah!

2008-08-25T11:34:00.010-04:00

Nikki did SUCH a great job at her Bat Mitzvah! She sang and read the Torah flawlessly throughout the two hour service. Nikki had a short time to prepare and you would never know it. She is one determined gal!
Nikki has the most loving family you've ever seen. Her sister Erika put together a photo and video montage that brought tears and laughter to everyone who attended the party. Nikki's mom and dad put on the wildest party! Every detail was perfectly thought-out and implemented!

Thanks to everyone who visited us at the Chamber of Commerce Trade Show at the Naples Beach Hotel! It was fun to watch people look through the pictures and recognize so many of their friends. Most of our display was made up of local families. The winner of our drawing for the gorgeous frame set was Kathleen Leavesley of Fifth Third Bank! Congratulations Kathleen!

Saturday's Expo

2008-08-07T23:34:00.008-04:00

If you are on my email list, I am sorry, I forgot to tell you where the Expo is this Saturday, August 9!
The Collection at Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt and Airport, across from Tiburon
The Expo is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Please come see our display and bring the family for lots of fun!
More info: http://neafamily.com/

I had a GREAT sunset session this week but the pictures are a surprise so I can't share them. I can share two of my fun studio sessions:
I love girlie girls!!
Khloe:

Ruth's maternity session was SO much fun! Her daughter did highjack some of the session. Liora was really into being photographed. She is SO cute! I hope to see you all at the Back to School Expo on Saturday!
Peggy

August & September Specials

2008-08-01T15:58:00.012-04:00

We have SO MUCH going on! We've listed our events and specials for August and September on the right side of the blog. We have SIX mini-sessions scheduled - come to one or all of them!
Each includes pictures and you also have the option of ordering wall prints, books, albums, photo jewelry, etc.

We are also exhibiting in two trade shows. August 9 Back to School Expo at The Collection at Vanderbilt (new shopping center at Vanderbilt and Airport) 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
August 21 Chamber of Commerce Trade show at the Naples Beach Hotel. Come visit!

Family Portrait in the Studio!

2008-08-01T15:39:00.004-04:00

Portraits with children or pets are almost always a challenge! We had a crazy time trying to get all the kids in one place for a nice portrait. But wow! We ended up with some awesome pictures!

Sometimes, we just photoshopped the others out.....

And sometimes, the picture just worked!

2008-07-20T16:37:00.004-04:00

Keating Associates

Keating is a very prestigious real estate company, located right on 5th Ave S in Old Naples. I have the honor of photographing their agents on a regular basis. I photographed a nice group portrait this week of some of the crew. Stop by or check out the Keating website: http://www.keatingrealty.com/.

Joey in July
Every summer, my Godson Joey stays with me for about a month. Joseph was born here in Naples but moved to Tampa about six years ago. We had a fun session in the studio and made a DVD slideshow for his mom of the session.

We may have Photoshopped the background a little on this one! :)

My .000015 seconds of fame

2008-07-12T17:24:00.008-04:00

The Dancing with Matt video came out on June 21. If you haven't been reading my blog, last summer, a friend, her daughter and I drove over to Miami to be in this video. It's already had over 6 million hits on YouTube. Look for me at 2.16 in Miami!

Peggy, Matt, Annie and Emily

Here is the link: www.wherethehellismatt.com

This just in..... as I was updating the blog, I received a call from someone who had seen Matt and the video on CNN! I am more famous than I realized.

Buzzards!

2008-07-06T10:47:00.011-04:00

If you are wondering why I haven't updated the blog in awhile, I purchased a house that needs work. There have been many unpleasant and expensive surprises. Here is a picture of the house. Close up view:
Does that give you an idea of how it's been going? Ha ha!!!

Actually, the house is coming along. It's been a challenge to keep up with the workload and the house issues but now that it's summer, it is really slowing down and giving me a chance to catch up.

Here are a few pictures from a couple recent sessions:

Sarah graduated from high school this year and was rewarded with a trip to Florida and a senior photo session! Senior sessions include clothing changes and often two locations.

The McGraw family visited Naples from up north and took advantage of our beautiful beach for their family portrait. The sunsets in the summer are the most fantastic! These boys were incredibly well-behaved and a joy to photograph!

We like to finish the session with some fun pictures!!!

The summer is such a great time to schedule your family portrait. It's not too early to start thinking about your holiday card photos!

Avant-Garde Images, Inc.

From the desk of the intern

Pelican Bay Photography Show and Competition

From the Desk of the Intern....

Providence House Ad comes with a free headshot!

Fine Print - Business headshot must be scheduled on a Tuesday between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Offer expires January 30, 2012. Location: Avant-Garde Images, Inc. Studio. Value of the headshot $95.00 (Tuesday special). Call or email for appointment: 239-263-7001.

NAWP Industry Award 2011

Jessie and Murray Album

National Association of Wedding Professionals NAWP Conference

Feeling the LOVE!

Show and Tell - Photoshop Actions and Layers

Chantal and Rob's Naples Beach Wedding

Photo Contest for a MAGAZINE COVER!

Posing Class coming up June 24!

CSN Student Interns

Tips for Large Family Portraits

Engagement Portrait Session Ryan & Sarah

Constant Contact All Star two years in a row!

We are thankful for happy clients!

Tastebuds Custom Catering -- WOW!!

Quick Photo Tip for Harsh Lighting and More...

Poll: Sharing Art Fair Space

Poll: Photo Contest

Nature Excursions, Lighting and MORE!

Featured Wedding Photographer Hilton Naples

Our February Newsletter is out!

Real "fake" wedding pictures!

Interview!

Gift Certificates for Classes or Portraits

Fake Problems ‘Soulless’

Fake Problems video for "Soulless" premieres on MTVu today!! It's funny and a great song!

Ritz-Carlton Wedding

Photography Naples Model Shoot

Photography Naples Halloween Shoot

oct23sixtysecondcommercial.wmv

Photographers - Model Shootout Oct 23!

Pin Up Calendar Special October 9

Check out my @constantcontact newsletter

Trash the Dress Model Shootout = Success!

Another Trash the Dress station

Portfolio Building - Trash the Dress - Aug 28

And the winners are.....

Drum roll..... 1st Place: Angie DeNease Seaman with 247 referrals2nd Place: Melinda Nagy Otero with 50 and3rd Place: Jennifer Gill with 30.Congratulations to the winners and thank you everybody that participated!!

It's YOUR turn to win big!

Peggy wins the Cadillac of Test Drives - Thanks to YOU!

Please vote daily until April 4

Hope for Haiti needs help!

Our new ad for Florida Weekly

A few hours off work!

Ooh la la!

Tonight's event

Ring around the Moon!

Ring Around the Moon

Ashlynn's Maternity Session

Repeat clients and referrals!

The photography classes and club

Bayshore Festival of the Arts

Bayshore Festival of the Arts Sat Jan 23

Our New Photography Club and Workshops

Life in perspective

Photo timeline

Bridal bowling

Senior Katie

Maternity Portrait

Senior Portrait

Sisters!

A Few Recent Weddings

New Holiday Card Templates!

Clearance Sale - Frames, Folios, Albums

Pregnant with TWINS!

Fake Problems Underwater

Senior Underwater Portraits!

Teen Photo Workshops June 13-July 11

Pin Ups!

I love props!

Marco Island beach wedding

Tammy and Steve-O

Lots of kids this week!

Another busy week!

Newborn Christopher

Drum roll..... 1st Place: Angie DeNease Seaman with 247 referrals
2nd Place: Melinda Nagy Otero with 50 and
3rd Place: Jennifer Gill with 30.
Congratulations to the winners and thank you everybody that participated!!