Studio site

Up early for a full day of family sessions...

so I thought I could get out the rest of the Shasta vs Lassen game.

  

 

 

 

A long drive home...

Is all the Lassen team got from their trip to Shasta. After a pretty much even first half the Wolfpack made a track meet out of the football game scoring at will. Here are a few shots to get you thru the night... more when I get a break tomorrow.
congrats...
tom s

 

 

 

 

 

Big game tonight....

Lassen rumbles down the hill for playoff game at Shasta tonight. It should be another exciting contest and it leads to the final championship game mid next week.  Stay tuned for some action shots later tonight!
cheers,
TA Schmidt

Snails and puppy dog tails...

So just what are little boys made of?

Sometimes the most revealing shot is not the one that ends up on the Xmas card to Grandma or over the fireplace or couch. Sometimes a shot just tells the story better than those posed and perfect.

Imagine... what are they thinking?  What did big brother do to crack up the little guy?  Who do you think gets in more trouble at home?

Can you imagine the great stories the parents will have of these two pumpkin heads growing up while watching how their characters develop?

What a great job I have.

peace,
tom s

So what do you like most...

to photograph every day the little girl asked during her family session last week.

Tough question.

I love senior season with all the energy and creative things we get to do.
I love little kids because they are so open, honest and fresh.
I love Grandparents because the stories they have to share.
I love engagement sessions to capture the couple in love without the distractions of the wedding.
I love families as we watch the kids grow and mature over the years.
I love commercial work knowing my images will create a desire for a product that will satisfy customers   
      and keep people employed building and selling the item.
I love beautiful scenes like we have in Northern California especially the great coast line.
I love buildings and think if I was not a photographer I would be in science or architecture.

Hmmm... I just love to shoot. Does that help?
peace

tom s

Such a beatiful time of year...

The colors, the clouds, the weather is all perfect for photography. I have way too much fun during the fall when I get to have senior sessions, families, kids, commercial and glamour portraits for infinite variety in my days in and out of the studio.

People are lining up for special photo gifts this year knowing that investing in portraits is the one thing you know will never go down in value.  With each year that passes the memory fades and kids grow up. Now is the perfect time to capture all that is important to you.

peace,
tom s

I was just reminded that I forgot...

to post the review of the latest James Bond movie.

We saw the flick on Sunday night along with a nice crowd of people at the Movies 8 in Redding.  Overall a good show with plenty of action. As usual don't be late... the first 10 minutes include a great car chase and fight scene that keeps you riveted to the screen.

This story in the series was missing a few classic parts that we all come to expect.

One... no cool gadgets that would make the guys at Apple Computer green with envy.
Two... never once mention the famous line..."Bond...James Bond"
Three.. the Bond girls were a bit tame so I expect the producers are pandering to a new audience.

It was still worth the few bucks and couple hours of time. I'll be back for the next one.
cheers,
schmidt...tom schmidt

Thanksgiving day week...

has always been super popular for family photos. Everyone is in a good mood, the kids are home from college or on leave from the military duties. While we are closed on Thanksgiving Day we are open the rest of the week for sessions. Right now we are down to just one session left on Friday and Saturday but some Mon-Weds time slots are still available if you call soon. Get the gang together and call me at 244-2636 for your session so we can get them back for Christmas Cards and Holiday gifts.
peace,
tom s

Turning loose a monkey with a camera...

A new client was commenting on how different it is to have their session with us.  Being new to the area they made an appointment with another studio through the phone book without checking any references or even going on-line to see what kind of work the photographer did. Their experience was less than perfect and they were embarrassed by the results... both for themselves and the "professional studio".

The photographer offered no help in selecting clothing, no help in preparing the kids, no help in posing and apparently no thought to getting the perfect expression and style. 

Hmmm...just what should a pro shooter being during a session?

See why we have been Redding's #1 studio for over 30 years... there is a difference and it can be huge when choosing your family photographer.
cheers,
tom s

Doing families all day today...

but I have my lunch break now so here's a another senior from this week.

Did you know that we do seniors all year long? Right now we still have a few weeks before the deadlines of some of the private schools and all the homeschoolers can come in any time.  We also shoot a ton of sessions after braces come off and hair grows back for those jocks that shave heads for football season!

The FOOD for PHOTOS program is still going on for 4 more weeks. Give us a bag of groceries that we will donate to the Goodwill Rescue Mission and we will give you a photo session FREE. The program is good for all sessions... family, seniors, children and even glamour!  Help the homeless and get the portrait you have always wanted.
cheers
TA Schmidt

Workin' for a livin'...

I raced to the Enterprise vs Foothill game from the 50th anniversary party I was shooting so I only missed the first quarter of play...but I missed FIVE scores in a shoot out that was all action. Here are a ton more pix from the field...
enjoy
tom s

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Just a taste...

of another nail biting shootout with Enterprise. With jus tover a minute left it was Ent 41 vs Foothill 40 after Foothill missed on a two point try.

More on Saturday after I get some sleep..........

Mommy's Little Angel

Yes the dates have been set and we are finally taking reservations for our most popular Limited Edition child's session. THREE DAYS ONLY--- starting Sunday November 30th and then the next two days Dec 1 & 2 here at the studio.

As always we supply all the clothing, props and cool ideas for delightful portraits that are wonderful gifts and great Christmas cards.

Still only $99 for the session and your choice of an 8x10 or the beautiful new Ice Crystals.

Watch the blog and your cable TV stations for more info and pix to show you as we get closer.
cheers,
tom s

Playoffs begin tonight...

and I may be missing the first game with a huge 50th anniversary party I am doing.  I"ll try to get there at least by halftime to keep you caught up on all the action. Just depends on how the party goes....

Speaking of parties I have my first Christmas party of the year next week to shoot.  If your company wants a unique way to save the memory of your party we might still be available for yours. We do all the work...set up a custom background and photograph each couple or family that attends the party and then deliver prints back to you in just a couple weeks. If it is one of the early parties they are even in time to have custom photo Xmas cards made for this year!

cheers,
tom s

Not everyone wants outdoors...

Even with the fall colors in full "New England style" beauty there are a handful of reasons to have your family photos taken in the studio.

We have total control of the lighting and background and don't have to worry about wind mussing up the hair or time of day when it gets dark so early.

Easy to get to... no walking on slippery ground or getting wet sitting in the leaves.

No distractions for the kids or pets... you have not lived until your dog starts chasing a squirrel during your family session!

Style... a formal portrait made outside often looks a bit odd. The background, colors and clothing all need to match to look well. That's why we offer free portrait consultations before your photo shoot.

peace,
tom s

Custom Holiday cards the easy way...

For the last few years we have been using the SendOutCard program both for business and home thank you notes, birthday and Christmas cards. It's a way cool system that allows you to use your photos (or ours that we are happy to let you use) or the kids artwork or any other digital file to make a personal statement with a real card to family and friends. 

It's also cheap.... just a buck a card rather than spending the $4 for a generic Hallmark card that 5 million other folks get.  If you want more info or a FREE tour of how to use the program just call me at (530) 244-2636 or drop me an email at tom@finephotos.com. We will even send a couple free cards while we chat!

There is still time for fall colors family photos. They make great gifts for the holidays and wonderful Christmas cards that are unique.  Book now before the next storm knocks the best leaves off the trees!
peace,
tom s

The name's Bond...

Ok I admit it. I love James Bond Movies. My favorites are the old ones with Sean Connery but the new ones still have the action, cars, gadgets and girls. 

Hey, I'm a guy so I need no excuses........... No need to guess where I will be this weekend... watch for a quick review of the "Quantum of Solace" next week!

cheers,
TA Schmidt

Today's Country...

With seniors down to just a couple sessions a week we are getting caught up with all the children, family and commercial sessions we have to put on hold every year during our yearbook rush.  So while I am shooting 500-1000 shots a day during senior season this time of year it is not unusual to shoot that much per session on the business work we create.

The fall colors are holding out for us so we continue doing family sessions every day. Channel 7's weather babe says we have another 10 days or so of great fall temperatures so there is still time to get your family booked. Call me at 244-2636 for a free clothing and location consultation.
cheers,
tom s

I've been buried...

with production work.

Hundreds of files to retouch and tweak for albums, books, portraits and special products. There are going to be a ton of folks getting TA Schmidt portraits for Xmas this year! Enjoy!

Here are a few shots from Senior Night at the Chico/Shasta game.  Let the playoffs begin!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in America...

Let's hope that our new leadership from the President all the way down to our local city folks have the courage and vision to lead and guide America back to it's strength and core values. America voted for change... now it will be interesting to see how well America adapts to change.

Even with all the recent winds and rain we still have great fall colors available for family and senior portraits. Schedule now for holiday gifts that grandparents and friends will always enjoy.
cheers,
TA Schmidt

Hope you are enjoying...

the beautiful clouds we have been getting the last few days.  It's like getting an ever changing Maxwell Parish painting outside your kitchen window. When you combine the bright white clouds with the clean blue skies and the beginning of some wonderful fall colors how can you NOT be happy to be alive?

With luck by tomorrow morning we will know the leader of America for the next four years. Let's hope they make some wise decision that are in the best interests of those they are supposed to lead.

cheers,
TA Schmidt

Finally....The Vote!

All the ranting and raving, huffing and puffing come to an end tomorrow. Get out and do the American thing and place your bet on which candidate will lead us back into a better time and life. Tomorrow and the next 4 years should be very interesting times. Pay attention...there will be good stories to pass down the generations.

I spent most of yesterday in the studio working on Holiday promos. We have just a ton of fun stuff coming up over the next two months. By far the most POPULAR is our annual Mommy's Little Angels at the end of this month.  That 3 day Limited Edition will sell out again this year so if you want it now is the time to guarantee the best appointment time.

Now is also a good time to reserve your family session the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving. For many families the only time to get all together is holidays, weddings and funerals. The holiday sessions are by far the most fun and least stressful so block out your time now.
cheers,
tom s
 

West Valley's Thriller...

is no treat for Central Valley.

The rain held off and the field held up for an exciting big gain game.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trick or treat...

We hope all you Halloween party goers have a fun but safe evening.  I am expecting a treat of a game in just an hour or so at West Valley.

If you have a great costume or party pix from where you are drop me an email and I may share it with the world. I remember my favorite costume from many years ago.... I was dressed as an old fashion county fair kissing booth.   Pay 50 cents for a kiss.... I believe before the night was over I was offering quantity discounts.........  It may still work......... :)

Football pix in the morning... see ya then.

peace.
TA Schmidt

This first day of rain...

had us scrambling to get sessions moved and shots taken between the squalls.  All in all we did fine and hope to do as well tomorrow with a full day of family sessions and about half of those wanting the fall colors outdoors. Whatever... we can always reschedule if need be to keep Mother Nature a non factor.

Should be a great game at West Valley tonight against the visiting CV squad.  If it is like the last rain game it will be tough hanging on the ball and CV is good at forcing turnovers. I'll be shooting on the field so if you get bored stop by and say Hi.

cheers,
tom s

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All is not lost...

now with basketball season going I might be able to forget the way the 9ers are stinking up the bay. I do have hope though with the new coach Singletary. His bold statement kicking off the field one of their over paid receivers was a step in the right direction. In sports AND government we need some leaders that are not pandering to the whim of the $$$ sign.

As a Jazz fan I am keeping a close eye on what is happening in the ultra competitive West again this year. There should be some outstanding Bball this year and a great chance to knock off the champion Celtics.

Just do it...
tom s

The Dog Blog...

We have seen more dogs lately with seniors, children and family portraits than ever.   From little scruffy mutts to the elegant Great Danes to the gigantic Mastiffs it seems every other session has a canine critter. While many of the inexperienced local photographers shy away from the challenges of pet portraits we feel it's all in another days work.

When you are doing your family session how can you even think of leaving little Muffy or the robust  Ranger at home?  The family would not be complete... and those sad eyes would haunt you for ever!

peace,
TA Schmidt

A great bonus...

for me when doing family portraits is watching how the family interacts. This is really people watching at it's best and since we do so many families year after year we see how the relationship changes as the kids grow older.

It's a cliche about how the sons tend to be closer to Mom while the daughters attach to Dad--- but with over 30 years of experience I can see how the family members light up when they pair up with certain parents.

The real joy of course is the family that loves each other and shows it with no hesitation. These make the best family portraits and a treasure that will be remembered for generations.

How's your family doing.... may I create something special for you?
cheers,

tom s

Sometimes I miss...

a part of my old business that was huge in the early years. During our first 20 years I would photograph over 50 weddings a year. That is like one every weekend and some days-- one in the morning and one in the evening.

We were so wedding oriented back then that I even ran the local Wedding Showcase over at the Redding Civic Auditorium every February.

Now days I hold Saturdays for regular clients-- seniors, families and kids.  Plus the occasional engagement session which was always my favorite part of the wedding.

Here's one from this last weekend. If you or a friend is getting engaged over the the Holiday season give me a call to see what we can do for you!

peace,
TA Schmidt

As promised...

a few more from last night. It was a wild day with sessions ending up with a wonderful engagement couple at and in the lake.  Even though we do not shoot weddings any more I still love to do the engagement sessions and formal bridals. You will see MUCH m ore of that starting next year with some of our new products and packages!

cheers,
tom s

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Foothill vs Shasta last night...

Here are a couple from last night's game. Will have more later this evening but we are swamped today again. Still more seniors coming in at the last minute and a bunch of families for the Fall Colors! We still have openings over the next 2 weeks so call 244-2636 now while the leaves are still ON the trees...
cheers,
tom s

  

 

 

 

Foothill vs Shasta tonight....

It should be a great game with Shasta rebounding off the last second loss to Enterprise and Foothill riding high after a good butt kicking delivered.  As we wind down the season each game grows in importance.

Who wants it most.... now we will see where the men and the boys walk the line.

cheers,
tom s
 

Thanks heavens the

election is almost done. Enough already with the SPAM automated phone calls, tons of junk mail and email. At this point I am willing to vote them ALL out and start off with some new blood that has no affiliation or baggage. Between the twits running the campaigns and the morons that are killing the banks and stock market we sure know who has been over rated and sticking it to out pockets books for too long.

Time for another revolution...
peace,
tom s

Fall Colors Special

In case you missed it here is our new Cable TV commercial for Fall FAmily Photos.

Have you seen it?

Our new Fall Family Portrait TV commercial is all over the cable channels. Right now it the perfect time to have the fall colors as a background for your family portraits and Holiday cards. Don't wait... one good storm can blow off all the colors until next year. Call 244-2636 to schedule your session. Weekend and evening times are still available.
cheers,
tom s