Stacey
Here are some pix
This is Melanie, our lovely hostess.
Pick a color?? Are you kidding me? It took me at least 20 minutes to decide. Thankfully the polish drawers were just below all the food!
Monday, August 27, 2007
Party at the Spa!
Last Friday I was invited to a "Girl's night at the Spa" party. What a fabulous concept! The nail salon near my house will close their business 2 hours early to hold your party (provided you have enough friends). I don't know, this might be a normal thing, but being one who rarely pampers myself, it was news to me and very cool. My friend, Melanie, hosted and put out a great spread for us girls. (I need that spinach/artichoke dip recipe Mel!) I got to chat with some ladies I haven't seen in a long time and meet some new ones as well. My toes and I had a great time and can't wait to do it again. Thanks Melanie :)
Stacey
Here are some pix
This is Melanie, our lovely hostess.
Pick a color?? Are you kidding me? It took me at least 20 minutes to decide. Thankfully the polish drawers were just below all the food!
Stacey
Here are some pix
This is Melanie, our lovely hostess.
Pick a color?? Are you kidding me? It took me at least 20 minutes to decide. Thankfully the polish drawers were just below all the food!
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Wedding Preview
Hey Everyone,
We just got back from today's wedding and I wanted to put up an awesome image that Stacey had taken. Mark and Rebecca had their reception at Sponsel's Apple Orchard and we stole the couple for a couple minutes to get out in the actual orchard. While we were there, Stacey got this.
I love the light and feeling of it.
You will have to check back later this week for more from the day. We had a blast.
- Jason
We just got back from today's wedding and I wanted to put up an awesome image that Stacey had taken. Mark and Rebecca had their reception at Sponsel's Apple Orchard and we stole the couple for a couple minutes to get out in the actual orchard. While we were there, Stacey got this.
I love the light and feeling of it.
You will have to check back later this week for more from the day. We had a blast.
- Jason
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Friday, August 17, 2007
Happy Anniversary Bird
I wanted to take a moment out of the day and thank my lovely wife for a wonderful first five years of marriage. It was 5 years ago today that we got married in her parent’s yard. The weather was a little suspect, but it was such a fun day, that fit our personalities perfectly. I still remember watching her come down and her Dad getting slower and slower as they got closer. It was the start of a new life that has included it’s own changes of pace. Now we have Lauren, an unbelievable 2.5 year old, and another one on the way. Stacey truly has been my better half and has been there beside me for many ups and downs. Above all else, I want to thank her for standing by me when times have been tough, supporting my dreams, and being a fantastic wife and mother.
With that in mind, I love you birdy!
- Jason
With that in mind, I love you birdy!
- Jason
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Tabitha
Okay, so I know it's been about 100 years since anyone has heard from me, but I am still alive and kickin'. As with all wedding photographers (and people in general I guess), summer is a crazy busy time. That is, of course, no excuse and I will try my best to be a better blogger.
Anyway, here is a senior shoot I did recently in Minneapolis. Tabi is a gorgeous girl and what a model she turned into the minute she walked in front of my camera! It makes my job that much easier. Of course it didn't hurt that she is a family member on Jason's side, so we already knew each other. We had an awesome time on our walk and found some cool new places along the river. Thanks Tabi. I had a blast :)
Stacey
Anyway, here is a senior shoot I did recently in Minneapolis. Tabi is a gorgeous girl and what a model she turned into the minute she walked in front of my camera! It makes my job that much easier. Of course it didn't hurt that she is a family member on Jason's side, so we already knew each other. We had an awesome time on our walk and found some cool new places along the river. Thanks Tabi. I had a blast :)
Stacey
Friday, August 03, 2007
Poker and lunch with [b]!
So, I am finally getting around to this post. As you may have read in one of the earlier posts, I had the opportunity to go to Mike Colon's 4 day intensive workshop (Which I highly suggest to any photographers out there). On the last day of the workshop, Mike hosted a poker party which was a lot of fun. While at the party, in addition to all of the great people I had already met through the workshop, we were joined by some more remarkable and creative people in the industry: Photographers [b]ecker, Dane Sanders, and Jessica Claire, and branding specialist Gary Sikes .
I was amazed at how many "big players" (for lack of a better word) in the photography industry were there. I can honestly say that besides being great at what they do, they were all very nice people.
As the party started, the host himself (Mike) knocked me out first.
From this point on, I had to pull out the camera and take some shots.
Turning little stacks into big stacks
Going all in
The bitter end
As we had all guessed, [b]ecker won the poker game. I should know that's what you get for playing with a guy who won a seat at the WSOP.
Towards the end of the party, I asked if anyone wanted to have lunch and [b]ecker took me up on the offer. We had lunch at a great Mexican place called Javier's. While at lunch, it was a lot of fun to sit down and talk about how he runs his business, etc. Plus, he is a huge Angels fan so we had to talk a little baseball. Unfortunately he got the upper hand as they knocked the Twins out of the ALCS a few years back. For anyone, photographers especially, who enjoys reading blogs, you should check out [b]eckers blog, and his new project called the [b] school.
Here we are in one of his infamous self portrait style shots.
I would like to thank everyone I met in California for all of their comments, suggestions, and the beginning of many new friendships!
Later everyone!
- Jason
I was amazed at how many "big players" (for lack of a better word) in the photography industry were there. I can honestly say that besides being great at what they do, they were all very nice people.
As the party started, the host himself (Mike) knocked me out first.
From this point on, I had to pull out the camera and take some shots.
Turning little stacks into big stacks
Going all in
The bitter end
As we had all guessed, [b]ecker won the poker game. I should know that's what you get for playing with a guy who won a seat at the WSOP.
Towards the end of the party, I asked if anyone wanted to have lunch and [b]ecker took me up on the offer. We had lunch at a great Mexican place called Javier's. While at lunch, it was a lot of fun to sit down and talk about how he runs his business, etc. Plus, he is a huge Angels fan so we had to talk a little baseball. Unfortunately he got the upper hand as they knocked the Twins out of the ALCS a few years back. For anyone, photographers especially, who enjoys reading blogs, you should check out [b]eckers blog, and his new project called the [b] school.
Here we are in one of his infamous self portrait style shots.
I would like to thank everyone I met in California for all of their comments, suggestions, and the beginning of many new friendships!
Later everyone!
- Jason
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Our Prayers Go Out To You
Something in Minneapolis happened today, the likes of which we have never seen before locally. The Interstate 35 bridge over the Mississippi River completely collapsed during rush hour this evening. The entire structure pretty much fell into the river. I don't think I have been this stunned over seeing a sight since 9/11.
To see some of the images, view this slideshow from the Star Tribune.
Needless to say, it is just a tragedy. Stacey and I used to live less than a mile from the bridge and it just gives me the chills thinking about it. To anyone who was touched by this event, our hearts and prayers go out to you.
- Jason & Stacey
To see some of the images, view this slideshow from the Star Tribune.
Needless to say, it is just a tragedy. Stacey and I used to live less than a mile from the bridge and it just gives me the chills thinking about it. To anyone who was touched by this event, our hearts and prayers go out to you.
- Jason & Stacey
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Photographers Resources
Hey Everyone,
We are looking forward to slowly starting a new section on the blog called photographers resources. Ideally this will eventually become a staple, but for now, will make an occasional appearance. There are so many great people out there who are willing to share and give insight, that we wanted to try and help do our part. In the line of some photographers who Stacey and I really look up to, like Mike Colon, [b]ecker, and Joe Photo. We will periodically be giving our thoughts, and some tips on what we find helpful in photography and in general. Please keep in mind that these are just things that we may find helpful, interesting, or thought provoking. By no means, do we claim they are the best way or the only way. Hopefully everyone may learn something. I am more amazed than ever at the things we use in our business that came from a much different experience than photography. We learned right away, that it is one thing to know how to take a picture, it is something entirely different to run a business.
With that in mind, our first recommendation is to get involved! Become active in your industry, community, whatever interests you. There are so many good people out there that are willing to help and share ideas, etc. You never what those new relationships will lead to in the future. I know there are a lot of people out there who like to operate on their own little island, scared that they may reveal the secret to their success. It is our belief that we can all help one another in some way, and elevate the entire industry in return.
Following with today's topic, here is a picture of me doing my first speech for some fellow photographers at our last PUG meeting.
(picture compliments of Paul Fletcher with PSF Photography)
After coming back so inspired from Mike Colon's Workshop, I wanted to share some of the under the radar things I learned. Some of which included stepping out of your shell, trying new things, taking risks, and building new relationships.
Take Care and Be Involved!
- Jason
We are looking forward to slowly starting a new section on the blog called photographers resources. Ideally this will eventually become a staple, but for now, will make an occasional appearance. There are so many great people out there who are willing to share and give insight, that we wanted to try and help do our part. In the line of some photographers who Stacey and I really look up to, like Mike Colon, [b]ecker, and Joe Photo. We will periodically be giving our thoughts, and some tips on what we find helpful in photography and in general. Please keep in mind that these are just things that we may find helpful, interesting, or thought provoking. By no means, do we claim they are the best way or the only way. Hopefully everyone may learn something. I am more amazed than ever at the things we use in our business that came from a much different experience than photography. We learned right away, that it is one thing to know how to take a picture, it is something entirely different to run a business.
With that in mind, our first recommendation is to get involved! Become active in your industry, community, whatever interests you. There are so many good people out there that are willing to help and share ideas, etc. You never what those new relationships will lead to in the future. I know there are a lot of people out there who like to operate on their own little island, scared that they may reveal the secret to their success. It is our belief that we can all help one another in some way, and elevate the entire industry in return.
Following with today's topic, here is a picture of me doing my first speech for some fellow photographers at our last PUG meeting.
(picture compliments of Paul Fletcher with PSF Photography)After coming back so inspired from Mike Colon's Workshop, I wanted to share some of the under the radar things I learned. Some of which included stepping out of your shell, trying new things, taking risks, and building new relationships.
Take Care and Be Involved!
- Jason
Monday, July 23, 2007
Michelle & Doug's Engagement
We met Michelle and Doug for their engagement session at the Rose Gardens in Minneapolis last weekend. They had mentioned that they wanted something that felt like the outdoors. With the various gardens and the lake nearby we thought this would be a good spot. We started off with some more standard shots and then got into Staja's signature style, laid back and fun. Check out the air that they got!
After the shoot, we headed to Pizza Luce for a nice cold frosty and some pizza. This was a great opportunity to sit down and get to know Michelle and Doug better. Needless to say they are a great couple and we are looking forward to their wedding! We also wanted to say thanks to mutual friends, Kevin and Katie, for putting them in touch with us. Thanks Guys!
Be sure to check out the slideshow of the rest of the shoot.
- Jason
After the shoot, we headed to Pizza Luce for a nice cold frosty and some pizza. This was a great opportunity to sit down and get to know Michelle and Doug better. Needless to say they are a great couple and we are looking forward to their wedding! We also wanted to say thanks to mutual friends, Kevin and Katie, for putting them in touch with us. Thanks Guys!
Be sure to check out the slideshow of the rest of the shoot.
- Jason
Sunday, July 22, 2007
The Peacock Project - A Preview
This is going to be a really short post, as I will be following up later on with additional pictures, but I couldn't resist posting a preview. One of our longest clients and friends, Mercy, was in Rocco Altobelli's fashion show today.
I will give more details later, but here is one picture I took outside the salon when she got done with her hair and make-up.
You got it, the concept for her outfit is a Peacock. Pretty Cool!
I hope you all had a good weekend.
- Jason
I will give more details later, but here is one picture I took outside the salon when she got done with her hair and make-up.
You got it, the concept for her outfit is a Peacock. Pretty Cool!
I hope you all had a good weekend.
- Jason
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Check Us Out
Hey Everyone,
Last month Stacey and I had the opportunity to shoot Minnesota Bride's "Best Of 2007" awards show. Some of the images will appear in the upcoming issue of Metro Magazine. If you get a chance, check it out.
In addition, Stacey and I would like to Congratulate all of the winners. Great job everyone.
Last month Stacey and I had the opportunity to shoot Minnesota Bride's "Best Of 2007" awards show. Some of the images will appear in the upcoming issue of Metro Magazine. If you get a chance, check it out.
In addition, Stacey and I would like to Congratulate all of the winners. Great job everyone.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
LIVE!!!!
Hey Everyone,
The new site is up and LIVE! If you have any problems viewing it, it may because you need Adobe Flash 8 or newer. and it is best viewed with a minimum screen resolution of 1024x768. One of the great new features is that when you go to our site, you have the option of accessing our main site, get captured slideshow, or blog from the same page. This means you don't have to try and remember multiple addresses. Type in www.stajastudios.com and you can go to any of those choices. Some people have already asked about the music. The current music is by Jehro and Carla Bruni. To view the information, just scroll over the frequency graphic on the upper left hand side of the site.
Over the course of the next month, we may be making minor tweaks, but it is currently fully functional. Be sure to check back semi-frequently because we have updated the functionality to make it much easier to add new content on a more regular basis. We hope you enjoy it and would love any comments!
Take Care
- Jason & Stacey
The new site is up and LIVE! If you have any problems viewing it, it may because you need Adobe Flash 8 or newer. and it is best viewed with a minimum screen resolution of 1024x768. One of the great new features is that when you go to our site, you have the option of accessing our main site, get captured slideshow, or blog from the same page. This means you don't have to try and remember multiple addresses. Type in www.stajastudios.com and you can go to any of those choices. Some people have already asked about the music. The current music is by Jehro and Carla Bruni. To view the information, just scroll over the frequency graphic on the upper left hand side of the site.
Over the course of the next month, we may be making minor tweaks, but it is currently fully functional. Be sure to check back semi-frequently because we have updated the functionality to make it much easier to add new content on a more regular basis. We hope you enjoy it and would love any comments!
Take Care
- Jason & Stacey
Thursday, July 12, 2007
My Week In The OC - A Review
As some of you may know, I recently had the opportunity (thanks to the encouragement of my lovely wife) to go to and study with one of the best wedding photographers out there, Mike Colon. My flight left Sunday morning June 17th. To start things off, I was lucky enough to have a 6+ hour layover in Pheonix. Lucky, you say. Yes, you read correctly. One of my great long-time friends, Roger, lives just outside of Phoenix. He picked me up at the airport, and I got to spend a few hours with him and his family.
A picture of Roger and the kidos!
From there, I flew into Orange County and quick grabbed a ride to the hotel. That night Mike had a dinner for all of the workshop students. It was a great way to meet everyone.
Ashley McCue, David Baxter, Nancy Hajjar, Justin Murphy, Lara Parent, Huy Phan, Jim Sisco, Matthew Wagner, Jeff Wendling
I won't be surprised if some of these folks will be giving their own workshops in the future. It was a great and talented group to be a part of.
Monday was the first day of studying and we had the opportunity to do an engagement shoot at Disneyland, which was an absolute blast.
Mike, spreading his knowledge!
Two of our lovely models and wonderful people - Brittany Leigh Gebler and Gavin Wade
This is one of Mike's clients - Diana and Josh. They were so much fun and full of life.
On Tuesday, Mike arranged for us to have some fun and relaxation at the beach, followed by a great bbq and discussion on marketing.
Jim catching a wave
Matthew getting up on a board for the first time
The lovely and talented Rosanna
I think we all enjoyed the fun and the sun.
On Wednesday, we had the opportunity to do another photo shoot at Balboa Beach. I would like to thank all of the great people and vendors for the time and items they donated for the shoot. Everything was gorgeous!
Brides - you have to check out the up and coming designer Marianne Lanting!
Thank you to Mon Amie Bridal for this beautiful gown!
Theron Chaney looking sharp in a tux from Friar Tux in Costa Mesa
A lovely up-do by Lindsay Shepherd
Check out the make-up job done on those eyes by Stephanie Friekin
And how could we forget this stylish and classic ring by Jewels by Justin
On Thursday, Mike concluded the workshop and hosted a great poker game (which I will post about later). In closing, I had such a good time and learned so much. For any photographers reading this, I strongly encourage you to look into Mike Colon's workshops. They are a great investment and you will meet some incredible people!
Information on all the people and vendors who helped make the photo shoots spectacular:
Assistant:
Kristin Renee
http://www.kristinrenee.com/blog
Female Models/Assistants:
Rosanna Stonesifer
www.rsphotography.net
Brittany Leigh Gebler
www.brittanyleighphotography.com
Male Models:
Gavin Wade
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=14516103
Theron Chaney
Hair:
Lindsay Shepherd
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=17028632
Make-up:
Stephanie Friekin
www.iheartcreative.com
Rosanna's Gown
Mon Amie Bridal
http://monamie.com
Brittany's Gowns (both days):
Marianne Lanting Couture
mariannelanting.com
Brittany and Gavin's Rings:
Jewels by Justin
www.jewelsbyjustin.com
Tuxes:
Friar Tux (in costa mesa)
714.556.5500
A picture of Roger and the kidos!
From there, I flew into Orange County and quick grabbed a ride to the hotel. That night Mike had a dinner for all of the workshop students. It was a great way to meet everyone.
Ashley McCue, David Baxter, Nancy Hajjar, Justin Murphy, Lara Parent, Huy Phan, Jim Sisco, Matthew Wagner, Jeff Wendling
I won't be surprised if some of these folks will be giving their own workshops in the future. It was a great and talented group to be a part of.
Monday was the first day of studying and we had the opportunity to do an engagement shoot at Disneyland, which was an absolute blast.
Mike, spreading his knowledge!
Two of our lovely models and wonderful people - Brittany Leigh Gebler and Gavin Wade
This is one of Mike's clients - Diana and Josh. They were so much fun and full of life.
On Tuesday, Mike arranged for us to have some fun and relaxation at the beach, followed by a great bbq and discussion on marketing.
Jim catching a wave
Matthew getting up on a board for the first time
The lovely and talented Rosanna
I think we all enjoyed the fun and the sun.
On Wednesday, we had the opportunity to do another photo shoot at Balboa Beach. I would like to thank all of the great people and vendors for the time and items they donated for the shoot. Everything was gorgeous!
Brides - you have to check out the up and coming designer Marianne Lanting!
Thank you to Mon Amie Bridal for this beautiful gown!
Theron Chaney looking sharp in a tux from Friar Tux in Costa Mesa
A lovely up-do by Lindsay Shepherd
Check out the make-up job done on those eyes by Stephanie Friekin
And how could we forget this stylish and classic ring by Jewels by Justin
On Thursday, Mike concluded the workshop and hosted a great poker game (which I will post about later). In closing, I had such a good time and learned so much. For any photographers reading this, I strongly encourage you to look into Mike Colon's workshops. They are a great investment and you will meet some incredible people!
Information on all the people and vendors who helped make the photo shoots spectacular:
Assistant:
Kristin Renee
http://www.kristinrenee.com/blog
Female Models/Assistants:
Rosanna Stonesifer
www.rsphotography.net
Brittany Leigh Gebler
www.brittanyleighphotography.com
Male Models:
Gavin Wade
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=14516103
Theron Chaney
Hair:
Lindsay Shepherd
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=17028632
Make-up:
Stephanie Friekin
www.iheartcreative.com
Rosanna's Gown
Mon Amie Bridal
http://monamie.com
Brittany's Gowns (both days):
Marianne Lanting Couture
mariannelanting.com
Brittany and Gavin's Rings:
Jewels by Justin
www.jewelsbyjustin.com
Tuxes:
Friar Tux (in costa mesa)
714.556.5500
Sunday, July 01, 2007
The Princess Party
Hey Everyone,
Last weekend we had the opportunity to shoot Grace's birthday party. She turned 4 years old, and had a blast at her party. Grace's mom, Kim,(Route 29 Napa) had won the session in a silent auction, where we donated a lifestyle sitting to the Oak Hill Montessori school. Needless to say, we couldn't have had a better family win. They were all so fabulous!
We put together a little slideshow of the party. If you haven't heard of Elizabeth Mitchell, she is a wonderful children's musician. She has this song called "Car Car", which is so fitting since Grace got this awesome go-kart, dune buggy from her parents. She was racing it around and having a great time. We are totally jealous!! The kids all got to make their own pizza and decorate a cupcake. The pond out back was brimming with really hungry fish, and of course the giant, bouncy, princess castle was frosting on the cake. All in all, it was one super cool party!
Happy Birthday Grace!
- Jason & Stacey
Last weekend we had the opportunity to shoot Grace's birthday party. She turned 4 years old, and had a blast at her party. Grace's mom, Kim,(Route 29 Napa) had won the session in a silent auction, where we donated a lifestyle sitting to the Oak Hill Montessori school. Needless to say, we couldn't have had a better family win. They were all so fabulous!
We put together a little slideshow of the party. If you haven't heard of Elizabeth Mitchell, she is a wonderful children's musician. She has this song called "Car Car", which is so fitting since Grace got this awesome go-kart, dune buggy from her parents. She was racing it around and having a great time. We are totally jealous!! The kids all got to make their own pizza and decorate a cupcake. The pond out back was brimming with really hungry fish, and of course the giant, bouncy, princess castle was frosting on the cake. All in all, it was one super cool party!
Happy Birthday Grace!
- Jason & Stacey
Friday, June 29, 2007
Stajastudios.com is down temporarily
Hey Everyone,
We wanted to let you know that stajastudios.com is down temporarily. We are in the process of launching a new web-site. In order to do so, we had to take our old site down for a couple of days. Unfortunately, our e-mail is also down for the same period of time. In the meantime, we set up a temporary e-mail at stajastudios@gmail.com. We can also be reached via phone. Be sure to check back over the next couple of days to see the new site.
Thanks,
Jason & Stacey
We wanted to let you know that stajastudios.com is down temporarily. We are in the process of launching a new web-site. In order to do so, we had to take our old site down for a couple of days. Unfortunately, our e-mail is also down for the same period of time. In the meantime, we set up a temporary e-mail at stajastudios@gmail.com. We can also be reached via phone. Be sure to check back over the next couple of days to see the new site.
Thanks,
Jason & Stacey
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Margie & Adam
We did Margie and Adam's engagement session a couple of weeks ago. They were such a fun couple to hang out with. After the session we went out for pizza at Pizza Luce and were talking when it came out that Margie is on a tug-of-war team. She has been all over in international tournaments. We had never heard of such a thing, but it sounded like it is a lot of fun. The team she plays on is called DJ's, I'm thinking we are going to have to take some pictures of one of their practices sometime. We had a great time and are looking forward to their wedding.
Be sure to check out the slideshow of the session.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Mike Colon Workshop
Hey Everyone,
I am checking in on my last day in sunny California, and am getting ready to hit the hay after an incredible week spent learning with Mike Colon. What an amazing time spent with some wonderful people. I will be sure to post more about it and the people I met when I get back home, but I wanted to put up a few images for you to take a look at.
To finish the week off, I ended up loosing my money in poker to the infamous [b]ecker, who is going to be playing in the WSOP in two weeks. Be sure to wish him good luck!!
P.S. Stacey and Lauren, I look forward to seeing you!!!
- Jason
I am checking in on my last day in sunny California, and am getting ready to hit the hay after an incredible week spent learning with Mike Colon. What an amazing time spent with some wonderful people. I will be sure to post more about it and the people I met when I get back home, but I wanted to put up a few images for you to take a look at.
To finish the week off, I ended up loosing my money in poker to the infamous [b]ecker, who is going to be playing in the WSOP in two weeks. Be sure to wish him good luck!!
P.S. Stacey and Lauren, I look forward to seeing you!!!
- Jason
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Chickens in the city??
On Monday one of Lauren's teachers from her school invited our whole class over to her house to see her chickens. No no, she doesn't live on a farm or in the country, but right in the heart of Minneapolis! I still can't get over it...farm fresh eggs every morning. Very neat. The children all loved getting a close up look and even got a chance to pet and feed them. Afterward we went to a nearby park for a picnic. Our school year ended two weeks ago, so it was really nice to see everyone again. Lauren has been non-stop talking about teacher Trish's chickens and her school friends. Here are some pictures from our "Chicken Day" and there are many more on this cute little slideshow. Check it out!
Thanks so much Trish for having us! We had a blast :)
Stacey
Thanks so much Trish for having us! We had a blast :)
Stacey
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