Author Archives: Candace

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A Photo Date

Whether Vitaliy and I are photographing a couple celebrating their engagement, an anniversary or just because, we encourage our clients to approach their time with us as a date. This is why we call our portrait sessions “a photo date.”

Two years ago Vitaliy and I decided to get some professional photos taken. I was surprised to find that I was extremely nervous as the day approached. Let’s just face it, being in front of the camera is intimidating.

During this photoshoot, Vitaliy will tell you, he kind of fell in love with me all over again. It was the first time we’d had our pictures taken since our wedding. And as most couples will find themselves in marriage, you do a lot of living side by side and not enough living face to face. Getting all dressed up, away from everyday life, and getting to look at each other, to really see each other, was a very special experience.

Ever since that photoshoot, we have approached photographing our clients differently. For us, it’s as much about the experience as it is about the photos. We want our couples to have a blast and fall more in love by the end of the session.

One of the ways we like to make this happen is with some form of “date idea” incorporated into the session. Take for example the Beach Party For Two. Having items like the beach ball and the picnic lunch helped loosen Kate and Brian up. It was less about us in front of them with a camera and more about the two of them having fun together. This encourages natural expressions instead of stiff, and sometimes uncomfortable posing.

And by the end of the session, everyone is at ease. They’ve had a good time. They realize being photographed is not as intimidating as they once thought. And they’re more comfortable with us too. This is the sweet part of the photoshoot. It’s at this point that we can push them a bit passed their comfort level where they’re willing to connect with one another in a way they typically only do when nobody else is around.

They’ll look at each other in that way that no one ever sees. Share the caress that is usually only shared when they’re alone. They finally let us in.

We are then able to deliver photos like these. No props or details. Just the two of them. Kate and Brian. Exactly as they are, in love.

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The eyes of Pictilio

Vitaliy and I often refer to me as the “voice” of Pictilio.

I am the one who usually corresponds with our clients over email. And I am the one who writes for this blog. But sometimes, I feel like it’s an inaccurate portrayal.

Vitaliy is definitely the “eyes” of Pictilio; the majority of the pictures displayed come from his handiwork. But even more than that, he is my inspiration. He inspires a lot of the things I write about and he is definitely a reason I am excited to celebrate love.

I keep saying that I want him to write for Pictilio because I feel like he has so much to offer. He hasn’t agreed to officially write, but he was willing to give you a little glimpse inside. Here is V’s version of the post I wrote about myself a few weeks ago. Enjoy!

10 things you may or may not need to know about me.

1. I enjoy a glass of scotch and a cigar.
2. I am very ticklish, and Candace takes advantage of it.
3. I buy things I don’t need or want just to get a deal.
4. I consider my moustache to be my greatest asset.
5. I fall asleep listening to movie soundtracks.
6. Sometimes when I step in front of a mirror I act out a fictional character.
7. I am a book fiend.
8. I required Candace to like garlic and sour cream before we could get married.
9. I always fill my tea cup to the brim.
10. I am a rebel.

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Anniversary
In A Box

I honestly believe that a relationship cannot survive on it’s own.

Vitaliy and I didn’t make it to 6 years of marriage without the support, prayers and encouragement of friends and family. And not to mention, some counseling in the mix too! Besides gaining wisdom from others, having loved ones celebrate with you makes life sweeter. And there isn’t a better cheerleader than my mom.

Her love language is definitely gift giving. So it didn’t surprise me at all when a package arrived on our doorstep the week of our anniversary. Inside was our very own “Happy Anniversary” sign. And the beautiful thing is that we can use it to celebrate this year and the years to come. She even designed a special box to help preserve it. I can’t wait to take a picture with it every anniversary and see how we change over the years.

Each piece was cut and glued with love. Thank you, Mom! I don’t know how it’s possible, but you seem outdo yourself each year.

I wanted to share this idea with you, my readers, for two reasons. First, in case you wanted to steal the idea and make it your own. And two, to remind you to reach out and celebrate a couple you know. We got to do this recently and it made us even more excited about celebrating our own marriage.

So go! I know a couple already popped in your mind. Go send them a card. Babysit their kids. Or make them a sign so big and special they’ll have no excuse not to hang it with honor. Because let’s face it, every year a couple remains committed and in love is a victory. A victory worth celebrating!

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