tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80079364882442106892024-02-19T05:38:27.262-05:00Pittsburgh Wedding, Portrait, and Event PhotographyPittsburgh Wedding Photographer's blog, Pittsburgh Wedding Photography, Pittsburgh Engagement Photography, Pittsburgh Portrait Photography, Pittsburgh Event Photography, Pittsburgh PhotographerMary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.comBlogger136125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-15867215014713990972009-10-22T12:50:00.000-04:002009-10-22T12:50:33.645-04:00LAST POSTIn case everyone didn't read to the bottom of my previous post--I'm no longer going to be using this blog. <br />
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My new blog can be found at: <a href="http://www.birchtreephotographyblog.com">Birchtree Photography Blog</a><br />
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So, please change your booksmarks!<br />
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Also, for you google readers...I think I gave unclear directions in my last post. To subscribe to my new blog, enter the exact URL of my new blog (www.birchtreephotographyblog.com) into your subscription box. Then click "add." That should do the trick. If not, you can find my new feed at the new blog. <br />
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See you there!Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-69951714315587252502009-10-20T15:56:00.001-04:002009-10-20T16:06:08.054-04:00Really BIG News!No, I'm not expecting a baby. <br />
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But I do have something very exciting to unveil today! <br />
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For some time I have been contemplating my branding and identity, and I wanted the Birchtree Photography brand to reflect my photography style: pure, elegant, and beautiful. My lame attempts at graphic design were pathetic at best. <br />
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So, I contacted local Pittsburgh graphic designer <a href="http://www.davidpcrawford.com/">David Crawford</a> to create an identity that would reflect my style. David was absolutely wonderful to work with, from listening to what I wanted to the extra hours he spent perfecting my logo--he did an outstanding job every step of the way. Using his creative skills, he was able to sketch and design a unique one-of-a-kind typeface and symbol for my brand. I could not be more pleased with it!<br />
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Now to show it to you...drumroll please...<br />
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Ta da!<br />
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Of course, this new brand required an overhaul of my site and blog design. So, here's the REALLY important news. I have moved my entire blog to a wordpress format blog at a new link. I know this is a pain for all of you subscribers and readers, but it is worth it in the end. The good news is that all of my old posts are already there, and the even better news is that the new blog ROCKS! And the best news of all--it loads MUCH FASTER! So, goodbye old, slow blog! <br />
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Change your bookmarks now! Go to <a href="http://www.birchtreephotographyblog.com">Birchtree Photography Blog</a><br />
You can also find the feed address on my new blog, and you can find me in google reader under "birchtreephotographyblog"<br />
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Seriously, this blog is about to become a ghost town folks. Please don't get left behind!Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-5199852635880679932009-10-19T22:49:00.000-04:002009-10-19T22:49:14.356-04:00Pittsburgh Child Photography | Kasey and BradyAfter seeing <a href="http://blog.birchtreephotography.com/2009/10/grant-and-andrew-pittsburgh-child.html">these cute boys'</a> photos, Kasey and Brady's mom contacted me for their own family portrait. <br />
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And what a fun family they are! The boys are precious; Kasey being quite the ham for the camera, and Brady being just a cutie! Thanks guys for having me out!<br />
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Check out this awesome climbing wall on their swing set.<br />
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I love this shot of all of them...<br />
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Kids and pumpkins--can you get any cuter?<br />
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Precious.<br />
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Drat...almost got everyone to look at me. :)<br />
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Ha, I love Kasey's pirate face and that Brady is chomping down on a leaf...<br />
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Oh my, those beautiful eyes!<br />
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Totally cute family! Fun, fun, fun!<br />
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Kristin and Lee actually knew each other growing up--their families being friends with each other. But it wasn't until they both moved to San Diego for separate reasons that things grew beyond just family friends. I love how life is funny like that. <br />
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They chose to do their engagement pictures around Phipp's because they will be having their reception there in January--and by then things may be a bit too cold for nice outdoor photos. Something about snow and high heels not meshing well together. <br />
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Cold weather or not, I'm looking forward to their wedding--it should be beautiful!<br />
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They liked the tree photo they had seen earlier on my blog...I like it too.<br />
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Kristin and Lee--you are both way cute!<br />
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Love this.<br />
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And this.<br />
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A little fun...<br />
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See you two soon!<br />
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We started at the <a href="http://www.frickart.org/index.php">Frick Art and Historical Center</a>, which is where Megan and Justin will be having their wedding next May. It's a beautiful complex, though we did have an escort the whole time (thanks Gwen!). :)<br />
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When I asked Megan and Justin about when they met, Megan laughed as she told me their first date (they were set up by a friend) didn't go too well...Fortunately, a BBQ cookout a year later brought them together again, and that time things went much better--as you can see! <br />
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After the Frick, we drove down to the Strip District in Pittsburgh and had a lot of fun finding neat spots for photos. I absolutely love going down to this area because it's a wonderful playground of colors, textures, and awesome architectural lines. (hint, hint...anyone want to do an e-session there?). <br />
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Cute shoes--check and mark!<br />
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Megan and Justin will be getting married in this awesome orchard next spring!<br />
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Justin also has an interest in photography, and he spied this lovely texture on the tree (P.S. Megan, you are hot!).<br />
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I'd live here.<br />
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I think Justin must be practicing for the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wife_carrying">wife carrying contest</a>.<br />
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I think Megan would prefer this method :) Too cute.<br />
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Sweet, we found the big tires lot!<br />
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My clients are braver than me!<br />
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And last but not least. When we made it over to the train car, Megan found some random potatoes on the ground and thought it'd be fun to toss them about. Awesome. <br />
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See you two in May!<br />
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I come across a lot of excitement photographing weddings...so it was hard to pick just one picture for the entry. But, I kept coming back to this one photo from <a href="http://blog.birchtreephotography.com/2009/07/jenna-dave-pittsburgh-wedding.html">Jenna and Dave's</a> wedding in July. Despite the very rainy weather that day, Jenna was SO excited to be marrying Dave.<br />
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Be sure to check out all the other wonderful entries on <a href="http://www.iheartfaces.com/"><img src="http://www.livinglocurto.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/smallbutton.jpg"/></a>Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-80156482892681200772009-10-13T19:38:00.001-04:002009-10-14T07:41:51.017-04:00Carly and Aubrey | Pittsburgh Child PhotographyAfter what seems like weeks of cloudy weather, the sun finally came out on Saturday, just in time for a fun children's portrait! <br />
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Carly and Aubrey are just the cutest sisters...and full of energy and life! I can't remember when I last had that much energy...and I don't even have any kids of my own yet!<br />
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Showing off her skills.<br />
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So sweet.<br />
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The leaves were a bit deep!<br />
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I discovered Aubrey loves building blocks.<br />
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I remember having a tricycle like that...<br />
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Fortunately for Kerry and Josh, a mutual friend eventually brought them together, and they've been that way ever since. That's so cool.<br />
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Last Thursday I met up with Kerry and Josh at Josh's parent's house, which has an awesome backyard. We managed to fit their shoot in during the 2 hour period it wasn't raining that evening, and I had a lot of fun hearing their story. (They got engaged in Italy--how cool is that?). I'm looking forward to their wedding in May.<br />
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Kerry, you are gorgeous! (And I can see why you had your eye on Josh, too!)<br />
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Sweet! A hammock! <br />
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Love this...<br />
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We ended the night by them playing some basketball...<br />
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So, Susie scoped the park out for herself, and on Tuesday I met up with her and Nick for their engagement photos. Despite the cloudy weather, we had a blast! They told me about how they met--he was a cook, she a waitress--and how it took a mutual friend to actually get them together. Lastly, we went up to Regent Square--just a little neighborhood near the park--for some "urban" shots. Susie and Nick, I can't hardly wait for your wedding next year!<br />
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Susie picked perfect colors to coordinate with the fall foliage.<br />
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Ha, this is Nick's "favorite pose." Love it!<br />
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Susie, can you get any cuter??? <br />
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I love it when couples can joke around with each other.<br />
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I actually take my dog to Frick Park a lot, but I'd never noticed this little cliff. Funny the things you can walk right by everyday...<br />
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To show you the difference, I have to post a photo from last year (pre-blog days):<br />
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And now for this year's photos--while we didn't have quite the same sunny weather, I think we had a lot of fun.<br />
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Such a big boy.<br />
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Hello cutie! Gone is that baby face...well..mostly :)<br />
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Cute family!<br />
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Ha, I love this look he's giving me here...such a flirter!<br />
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And we can't forget the dog!<br />
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Love this...<br />
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See you next year!<br />
</center>Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-37805835385675693852009-10-06T16:04:00.000-04:002009-10-06T16:04:35.871-04:00Carlyn and Brian | Pittsburgh Engagement PicturesFinally, after weeks of rescheduling due to rainy weather, I got to shoot Carlyn and Brian's engagement session in Sewickley last Thursday. I think it was worth the wait! <br />
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Carlyn and Brian chose a lovely location for their engagement photos--Sewickley Heights Borough Park--which had a fun "country" feel to it. I know I say this all the time, but I just love doing engagement sessions because I get to know my clients a bit better. I must say though, that I'd already spent several hours chatting with Carlyn before the session when we had first sat down and met. Ah, I must say she's a girl after my own heart! I mean, she reads the <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/"> the Pioneer Woman</a> blog for crying out loud! Sorry, yes, I must admit I've wasted some time on that site before...<br />
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Anyway, it was such a pleasure to finally get to meet Brian. I couldn't get over just how much he loves Carlyn...it's the sweetest thing. Thanks guys for being so much fun to hang out with!<br />
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Speaking of Pioneer Woman, check out Carlyn's gorgeous red hair! I'm jealous. <br />
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Carlyn, you are BEAUTIFUL. Oh those blue eyes!<br />
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Brian, you are too! (handsome, that is)<br />
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Carlyn and Brian met on the swim team in college...here's a little weight room reenactment. <br />
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It was quite fun to receive a bunch of cards in the mail this afternoon. I love getting cards--it's so "old-fashioned" but such a treat. I know whoever sent me the card had to take some time to buy it, write in it, and lop some postage on it and stick it in the mail to me. And I'm always amazed by how they get it to me <i>on time</i>. <br />
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Indeed, I have much to be thankful for as I reflect on the 25 years God has given me. I hope to have many more birthdays to share with family and friends...and I'm glad the next few won't be on a Monday :). <br />
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And the photo again (thanks Amanda and Tim!): <br />
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See more winning entries <a href="http://iheartfaces.blogspot.com/2009/10/week-38-blue-photo-challenge-winners.html">here.</a>Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-78038192314315974902009-10-02T18:37:00.000-04:002009-10-02T18:37:23.888-04:00April and Brian | Pittsburgh Wedding PhotographySometimes for various reasons I'm not able to meet both the bride and groom before the wedding. This was the case for April and Brian, though I did get to sit down with April several times before their wedding. From those chats, I knew April thought the world of Brian. So, it was especially fun to get to see on their wedding day how much Brian loves April, too. <br />
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The day started off at the Radisson Hotel in Greentree where April and Brian both got ready. Their ceremony was held at the gorgeous St. Bernard Parish Church in Mt. Lebanon, and later they returned to the Radisson for a wonderful reception of dinner and dancing. It was truly a pleasure to photograph their great families and friends.<br />
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April and her mom used this technique to hold back the tears...so cute!<br />
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My view...<br />
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Jay's view...love it.<br />
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What a beautiful church!<br />
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Love this shot Jay captured...<br />
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The guys.<br />
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OK, I totally didn't tell them to do this...but they though leap frog would be fun...<br />
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The girls.<br />
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I love it when couples can be goofy with each other.<br />
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Hotness.<br />
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Ha, I love April's pose!<br />
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Again, no direction from me...love it!<br />
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April strikes another pose...<br />
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I love toasts! The stories you get to hear are great!<br />
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Love this moment when they're getting ready to leave...<br />
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Congratulations April and Brian!<br />
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You see? One of my many skills as a photographer--walking backwards and shooting. I just know one of these days I'm going to totally biff it. <br />
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What I was doing...<br />
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And the shot...<br />
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Seems pretty safe.<br />
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Now see? I'm not afraid to get a bit dirty, too. <br />
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Hopefully that will inspire you to go for some different angles when you're taking photos.Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-15731643417588083922009-09-29T16:40:00.001-04:002009-09-29T16:43:09.810-04:00A Jelly Donut and a SwanYou're probably scratching your head over the title of this post. I'll explain. You see, this is how Astin has been spending most of his day:<br />
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Jay and I call that his "jelly donut" pose. Don't ask me how he breathes or how it can possibly smell good...but he loves curling up like that.<br />
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Another favorite of his is the "swan" position.<br />
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I guess his rump makes as good of a pillow as any...<br />
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"I am so not amused."<br />
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As you can see, he's had a rough day.<br />
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Pathetic, really.<br />
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I know I've mentioned this before, but one of my favorite things about engagement sessions is the chance to get to know my clients a bit better. I loved hearing about how Erin and Zach met--at the lovely Penn State campus--and seeing how much they are completely in love with each other. I'm definitely looking forward to their wedding next June.<br />
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Mmm...check out the cute bows on Erin's shoes.<br />
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I love the way Zach makes Erin laugh...<br />
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I'm totally jealous of Erin's skirt. Such a flattering style!<br />
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Erin has the most gorgeous eyes...<br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/663917262_HodiU-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/663930271_Phw6R-L.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/663919207_gteYJ-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
Yay for an old barn!<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/663921357_p9nx3-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/663923350_89sue-L.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/663925122_Xjir6-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
I'll see you two in June!<br />
</center>Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-71835818387814305782009-09-28T07:59:00.001-04:002009-09-28T15:47:38.066-04:00I ♥ Faces Contest Entry | Blue<center><a href="http://www.iheartfaces.com/"><img src="http://www.livinglocurto.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/smallbutton.jpg"/></a></center><br />
<br />
<a href="http://iheartfaces.blogspot.com/">I ♥ Faces"</a> is a cool blog devoted to showcasing faces...and they hold weekly contests and challenges. Although I've lurked around the blog for a while, this is my first time to enter one of the contests. <br />
<br />
This week's heme is "blue," I thought this photo fit the theme well...<br />
<center><br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/663600406_V8AQt-L.jpg"><br />
</center>Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-57909255832059621472009-09-25T12:59:00.000-04:002009-09-25T12:59:43.919-04:00Pittsburgh Trash the Dress Session | Workshop RecapI have to start this post by saying that <a href="http://blog.birchtreephotography.com/2009/08/amanda-and-tim-wedding.html">Amanda and Tim</a> are awesome! They were wonderful models last night for the workshop at Frick Park (and oh so very brave!). And, I discovered how much I LOVE Frick Park...it would be an awesome spot for engagement photos...hint, hint.<br />
<br />
Despite a bit of a rain scare to begin with, I think everyone had a blast getting to practice shooting in manual mode and taking control of their settings. It was a mix of Canon and Nikon users, and I have to give a big thanks to the more seasoned Nikon shooter who was in attendance--Nick. He definitely helped figure out how to change camera settings for the newer Nikon shooters. <br />
<br />
Throughout it all, I felt like jumping up and down because it was so much fun getting to do a Trash the Dress session. I would love to do more of these--so, any past brides up for the challenge?? It is a TON of fun, trust me! If you don't mind getting your dress dirty (when are you going to where it again, anyway?), you should definitely consider it. <br />
<br />
Now I did make one goof--I completely forgot to take a picture of the group! Duh! I guess I was in "follow the white dress" mode and totally focused my lens on Amanda and Tim (who were awesome--did I mention that?). Ah well, we'll have to do it again sometime!<br />
<center><br />
Things started off easy enough in a fun field. <br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660387972_37N6M-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660388785_DoFsS-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
Ah, there's some shooters...<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660398388_KXGZ6-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660389459_Bg98h-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
Then things got more interesting...<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660399275_CW9Ts-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660399730_sW8qd-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660400244_WaLyh-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
I just LOVE Tim's suit...so cool.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660390348_Wdewe-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660391442_dUbQT-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
And then things got really interesting...yes they did! They went in the creek!<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660392534_FZrth-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
LOVE this. <br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660393344_AGGnP-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660394036_RQU2V-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660401353_EKvkN-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
Aw yeah!<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660402152_KWiVm-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660402647_LGUSb-L.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660403471_3Hheg-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660404132_7payh-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
See? I wasn't the only out there. I'd love to see her shot, too...<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660405114_ApXeu-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660405777_zE74x-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660395311_amAiq-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660395997_JQHMW-L.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660406640_Wzbhw-L.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660407319_XPFxN-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/660397663_hSiY9-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Amanda and Tim for being such great sports!<br />
</center>Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-25333565422219596722009-09-24T09:48:00.000-04:002009-09-24T09:48:45.107-04:00Reminder: A Little Workshop is Tonight!Don't let the G-20 madness fool you, A Little Workshop is still on for tonight. We'll be avoiding the dignitaries at Phipps by tromping around Frick Park. And if it rains? Hey, it's a trash the dress session, so it'll still work. Should be fun, and I can't wait to see you there! <br />
<br />
All the details (and there's some spots left!):<br />
<br />
If you've ever wondered how to use your fancy schmancy digital SLR camera in a mode other than "auto" but can't get beyond reading the manual, then I've got some good news for you.<br />
<br />
I've decided to host a small workshop to share some of the tips and tricks I use in my work and to help folks really get the best use of their SLR cameras. That means (shudder), turning the dial to "manual mode" and learning how to get the correct exposure in camera. <br />
<br />
Personally, I'm a hands-on type of learner, so this workshop will primarily be that: hands-on. It will consist of several components. The first will be some basic learning of what determines exposure and how to work with available light. Next we'll be doing a "trash the dress" type of shoot with a couple whose wedding I shot this summer. Lastly, I'll briefly explain some post-processing that I do and answer any questions you may have. It should be a ton of fun and hopefully very helpful to you!<br />
<br />
So, the 411:<br />
<b>When:</b> 5pm on September 24, 2009 (that's next Thursday)<br />
<b>Where:</b> Frick Park on the eastside of Pittsburgh. We'll be meeting on the side closest to Braddock Avenue here: <iframe width="300" height="300" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="http://maps.google.com/maps?ie=UTF8&ll=40.43171,-79.898908&spn=0.00245,0.003219&z=17&output=embed"></iframe><br />
<small><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ie=UTF8&ll=40.43171,-79.898908&spn=0.00245,0.003219&z=17&source=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">View Larger Map</a></small><br />
<br />
If you turn onto Lancaster from W. Hutchinson, you'll follow a small road into the park. There's a parking lot at the bottom, and I'll be in standing in or near the parking lot.<br />
<br />
<b>Who:</b> Anyone who has a digital SLR camera interested in learning how to use it better. Limited to the first 10 people who sign up.<br />
<b>What to Bring:</b> Your camera, any lenses that you own, memory cards, and your questions!<br />
<b>How much does it cost?</b> $25 You can pay through paypal here: <form action="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr" method="post"><input type="hidden" name="cmd" value="_s-xclick"><br />
<input type="hidden" name="hosted_button_id" value="8283076"><br />
<input type="image" src="https://www.paypal.com/en_US/i/btn/btn_buynowCC_LG.gif" border="0" name="submit" alt="PayPal - The safer, easier way to pay online!"><br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="https://www.paypal.com/en_US/i/scr/pixel.gif" width="1" height="1"><br />
</form><br />
Once 10 people have signed up, no more will be accepted. <br />
<br />
I hope to see you there, and let me know if you have any questions!<br />
<center><br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/619771037_u2PAq-X2.jpg"><br />
</center>Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-58557702621813712562009-09-23T21:30:00.001-04:002009-09-29T08:56:52.536-04:00Meghan and Jim | Married at Heinz ChapelFrom all the emails back and forth and conversations in person, I knew <a href="http://blog.birchtreephotography.com/2009/08/meghan-and-jim-pittsburgh-engagment.html">Meghan and Jim's</a> wedding would be beautifully planned with Meghan's great sense of organization. And sure enough, their wedding on September 12th was just perfect!<br />
<br />
For starters, Pittsburgh's famous Heinz Memorial Chapel was just as gorgeous as you can imagine. Meghan and Jim exchanged vows and later marched out hand-in-hand with a bagpiper leading the way. Afterward, we stopped by the Mellon pillars and Phipps Conservatory for some fun bridal party shots. The evening was topped off with a wonderful reception at The Cathedral Room at St. Nicholas's church in Oakland. <br />
<center><br />
It was a busy morning getting everyone ready for the day...<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658917782_xGMNi-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658922456_vpwL4-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658926662_SxjG9-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
..but not everyone was wide awake.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658919150_NSR7j-L.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658919964_oZApB-L.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658928848_dMzgb-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658930564_NjkTi-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658923249_DZbuX-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
Gorgeous Heinz Chapel.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658924284_tADF4-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658932380_SqSt4-L.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658900181_FeiLg-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658925374_AtWq9-L.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658927300_XMqRr-X2.jpg"><br />
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Gotta love the red doors.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658928141_Bu5Eu-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
And a fun bridal party...<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658929560_ZPFJs-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
...see what I mean?<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658902381_KncWV-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
And the handsomest little ring bearer.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658903652_cNetg-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658904468_UVaht-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
Meghan, you are beautiful!<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658904898_yX8Sw-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
And Jim, you're handsome, too.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658905318_L2yR8-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
Love the cuff links...<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658905783_DuKH9-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
I didn't tell him to do this...<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658907020_6oUEM-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
An awesome shot by Jay.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658916405_NVQAc-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658907963_L3LiL-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
Lucky for us, the side park by Phipp's was open.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658908546_aogpT-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
Rawr.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658908700_5dNyQ-L.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658909623_c4UEb-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658910102_tNDhL-X2.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658910626_VnqCE-L.jpg"><br />
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Then off to the reception at the Cathedral Room. So many lovely details.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/659105202_sEtUk-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
Meghan's twin sister gave a great toast.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658901018_mSYyL-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
Followed by a very touching one from Jim's father.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658901918_Yxs3W-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
And lastly a toast by Meghan's father that somehow involved feathers.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658903069_DYGYk-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
It always starts innocently..<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658911157_3aSSY-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
...but rarely ends that way.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658911672_3u6Yu-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
I love how the little flower girl is totally mesmerized by the cake.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658912460_4fq9E-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
Meghan and Jim ended the evening with a lively dance floor. Maybe too lively.<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658913458_SqwCP-L.jpg"><br />
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<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658913939_5amRH-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/658903997_Gmfmo-X2.jpg"><br />
<br />
Congratulations Meghan and Jim!<br />
</center>Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-3763905543152338212009-09-21T16:06:00.000-04:002009-09-21T17:21:43.491-04:00Pittsburgh Engagement Photo IdeasThe cool weather and the lovely fall leaves seem to cry out for cute couples to kiss beneath branches and snuggle up on park benches. Not surprisingly, I have quite a few engagement sessions scheduled for the next few weeks. So, I thought I'd try to help folks prepare to get their best engagement pictures with a few tips I've learned along the way. <br />
<br />
1) (this is the most important tip): HAVE FUN. Period. <br />
<br />
This seems too simple to be true, but it's not. If you and your fiance/e can relax and just enjoy each other's company, the photos will reflect it. That means not worrying about what happened at work that day, forgetting about the list of things you need to do for the wedding, and just focusing on the person you love the most. Even if it's just for a couple of hours amidst a hectic schedule.<br />
<center><br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/568137941_tNytm-X2-2.jpg"><br />
</center><br />
<br />
2) Location, Location, Location. <br />
<br />
I've photographed engagement sessions all over the Pittsburgh area, and I know of some really great places to go. I'm also up for the new and unexplored. So, I can give you good advice on locations, but you have to decide where you'll be most comfortable. A busy street downtown might not be your cup of tea, so a quiet park might be a better fit. Or, conversely, wandering under shaded trees just isn't your thing--and you love the idea of graffiti-ed walls and cool concrete. Let's do it! <br />
<br />
Or, maybe you like them all--we can do that, too. Just let me know your thoughts, and we can plan for the perfect location.<br />
<center><br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/584477906_CGjVJ-L.jpg"><br />
</center><br />
<br />
3) Dress appropriately.<br />
<br />
This is really broad--but basically, wear what you're comfortable in. And bring a change of clothes to add some variety! Just be sure not to clash with each other. Ie, avoid overly patterned clothes or colors that don't mesh well. <br />
<br />
I loved how this couple changed things up with different outfits:<br />
<center><br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/616203764_45k9W-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/616904050_dZxtL-L.jpg"> <br />
</center><br />
<br />
4) Be You (And Affection is OK)<br />
<br />
Every engagement session I photograph is unique, and that's because every couple is unique. That's part of the fun--I love getting to know each of my couple's story and seeing how they interact. So, try to forget about my big camera (trust me, you will), and turn your attention on your lover. <br />
<br />
Above, be yourselves! I loved how this couple brought their bikes, an integral part of how they met.<br />
<center><br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/604180523_Z3TAp-L.jpg"><br />
<br />
...and I love the simple affection here. <br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/590114966_eKh6s-L.jpg"><br />
</center><br />
<br />
I hope you're looking forward to your engagement session! Let's have fun!Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-27869678404961112112009-09-18T15:38:00.001-04:002009-09-18T15:40:05.262-04:00Just Because......I feel like this today. Happy, excited, and thankful for another wonderful week (not to mention the lovely fall weather we're getting here in Pittsburgh).<br />
<center><br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/653440006_ftnbk-L.jpg"><br />
</center>Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-69894689326924071922009-09-17T13:33:00.000-04:002009-09-17T13:34:06.677-04:00Announcing: A Little Workshop | Thursday, Sept. 24thIf you've ever wondered how to use your fancy schmancy digital SLR camera in a mode other than "auto" but can't get beyond reading the manual, then I've got some good news for you.<br />
<br />
I've decided to host a small workshop to share some of the tips and tricks I use in my work and to help folks really get the best use of their SLR cameras. That means (shudder), turning the dial to "manual mode" and learning how to get the correct exposure in camera. <br />
<br />
Personally, I'm a hands-on type of learner, so this workshop will primarily be that: hands-on. It will consist of several components. The first will be some basic learning of what determines exposure and how to work with available light. Next we'll be doing a "trash the dress" type of shoot with a couple whose wedding I shot this summer. Lastly, I'll briefly explain some post-processing that I do and answer any questions you may have. It should be a ton of fun and hopefully very helpful to you!<br />
<br />
So, the 411:<br />
<b>When:</b> 5pm on September 24, 2009 (that's next Thursday)<br />
<b>Where:</b> Frick Park on the eastside of Pittsburgh. We'll be meeting on the side closest to Braddock Avenue here: <iframe width="300" height="300" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="http://maps.google.com/maps?ie=UTF8&ll=40.43171,-79.898908&spn=0.00245,0.003219&z=17&output=embed"></iframe><br /><small><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ie=UTF8&ll=40.43171,-79.898908&spn=0.00245,0.003219&z=17&source=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">View Larger Map</a></small><br />
<br />
If you turn onto Lancaster from W. Hutchinson, you'll follow a small road into the park. There's a parking lot at the bottom, and I'll be in standing in or near the parking lot.<br />
<br />
<b>Who:</b> Anyone who has a digital SLR camera interested in learning how to use it better. Limited to the first 10 people who sign up.<br />
<b>What to Bring:</b> Your camera, any lenses that you own, memory cards, and your questions!<br />
<b>How much does it cost?</b> $25 You can pay through paypal here: <form action="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr" method="post"><input type="hidden" name="cmd" value="_s-xclick"><br />
<input type="hidden" name="hosted_button_id" value="8283076"><br />
<input type="image" src="https://www.paypal.com/en_US/i/btn/btn_buynowCC_LG.gif" border="0" name="submit" alt="PayPal - The safer, easier way to pay online!"><br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="https://www.paypal.com/en_US/i/scr/pixel.gif" width="1" height="1"><br />
</form><br />
Once 10 people have signed up, no more will be accepted. <br />
<br />
I hope to see you there, and let me know if you have any questions!<br />
<center><br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/619771037_u2PAq-X2.jpg"><br />
</center>Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8007936488244210689.post-47890967692496594772009-09-16T12:05:00.000-04:002009-09-16T12:05:51.793-04:00Angela and PJ | Pittsburgh Engagement PhotosAfter a bit of a rain delay, I finally got to meet up with Angela and PJ last week for their engagement photos outside of Phipps Conservatory.<br />
<br />
These two are so much fun, and they had me laughing so hard about how they met...it involved a fateful haircut, some myspace "stalking,"and a beard-in-a-glass moment. I'm afraid my retelling of it just wouldn't give it justice. Suffice it to say that you don't need a butterflies-in-your-stomach-feeling first date to find real love.<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to photographing Angela and PJ's wedding next May!<br />
<center><br />
I just love Angela's smile...<br />
<img src="http://www.birchtreephotography.com/photos/651452249_H9CQD-L.jpg"><br />
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So cute...<br />
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</center>Mary Schwarzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04514061074214979694noreply@blogger.com0