Jennie Gaskins {photographer}

Lucky #13....

2012-01-31T20:27:00.001-08:00

Well I present you with an amazing miracle!!

This little man decide to come 5 weeks early!! Yes you read that right ...FIVE weeks!

He came into this world on a day that most would view as UN-lucky....Friday the 13th.

But he was as healthy as could be and Mom and Baby were home in just two short days!!

ENJOY!!

Backdrop CUBE......

2012-01-09T11:14:00.000-08:00

I have been super busy around here and have been working on few things NEW to JG Photography!!

One thing that I'm launching today is a VERY HELPFUL tool for all those Newborn Photographers out there!!

You see before the Backdrop CUBE came along this is how I would have to set up for a newborn shoot.

It was always pretty tricky being quick and quiet while baby was sleeping if I needed to tear down the Bean Bag set up and get ready for the baskets and buckets! I was always being Mrs. Gumby and contorting myself to get the shot and stretch the blanket how I wanted...you guys know...clamping the sides to whatever props you have or having Mom or Dad hold a corner for you!!

Well here's where the Backdrop CUBE comes in!! For those Newborn Photographers out there that constantly struggling with getting those blankets nice and smooth!! This fits right over the Newborn Posing Nest / Bean Bag and has plenty of room around for adjustments. It also has room in back for the "Nest" to slide in and out if need be. The tall back is perfect for clamping your blankets up and over to get the perfect swoop in your blankets!

NO need to fummble around with your backdrop stands any more!! The tall back is also easy to take off for quick and easy storage!

Made out of PVC, light and easy to use!
FREE SHIPPING (with in the United States)

To purchase straight from my website click HERE

To purchase off of ETSY....click HERE

Thanks for looking and HAPPY SHOPPING!!!

-Jennie

A Night with the Nephew...

2011-12-23T19:19:00.000-08:00

My Sister-in-Law came over last night to play and hang out!!

We played with her new baby Luca in the studio for a bit, trying to see if he'ld fall asleep for us....

WELLLL he wanted to play too and didn't sleep at all!!

But he sure is CUTE and getting so big from the last time I captured him!!

ENJOY

Friends, Family, Fun....

2011-12-19T18:23:00.000-08:00

Today I had the chance to assist my good friend Molly Shields from Molly Shields Photography! We had a GREAT time with her new little Nephew James!

He was such a doll and OOOHHH so good!!

Molly and I have so much fun capturing newborns together....I honestly believe the two of us can get more poses and better poses out of each set up when we work together!

Molly, I'm so glad to have meet you and become good friends with you!
I can't wait to see what the future holds for you!!

ENJOY

Early Christmas Gift....

2011-12-12T19:59:00.001-08:00

Little Baby Joe Joe decided to grace this earth early ...just in time for Christmas!!
Joseph's big brother Mikey was having a hard time adjusting to being a big brother but I'm sure with some time they will be BEST BUDS!!!

Little Prince Joseph gave us some GREAT images...Mom will cherish these for sure!!
Thanks to Molly Shields again for coming in and assisting me!!

Future newborn clients don't be surprised if you see Molly at your session, as I'm sure more shoots together will happen as much as we can schedule them!!

ENJOY

Ending the 2011 Season with a Beauty.....

2011-12-04T13:06:00.000-08:00

This was my last session of the year and I was super excited to see this wonderful family again!! They have been to my studio several times to have their oldest daughter captured....

see HERE & HERE.

This time they brought in their newest addition....Little Miss Mia!!

Isn't she just beautiful!!

She was amazing for us and I must add, didn't poop once!!!

Good job Mia....and good job Mom and Dad!

Congrats!

ENJOY

Black & White.....

2011-11-29T19:45:00.000-08:00

These two cuties came all the way from Wisconsin to see me and have some fun in the studio!!

Big Brother (Sterling) was none stop the whole time and Little Sister (Scarlet) was curious as ever!! (don't you LOVE their names??!! ....so fun!!)

ENJOY

So we meet again....

2011-11-27T05:54:00.000-08:00

Check out this handsome little man!!

He is the first child added to the last official wedding I captured!!

I LOVE to see families come back and show off their additions!!

He was quite the little stinker too....seemed every time I moved this little guy he tooted!

Tee hee hee

ENJOY

Black Friday 2011

2011-11-25T04:38:00.000-08:00

It's that time a year again folks....
the time when all the crazies come out of hiding and gobble up all the good items and sales!

Well I have something for everyone....

There is no limit in number of sessions and they will be on sale all day today till Midnight!!

ENJOY

Click HERE to purchase

Little Luca Liam....

2011-11-20T21:47:00.001-08:00

Introducing the newest member to my family!!! (and no it's not my own son!!)

It's my little Nephew Luca!!!

My Brother-in-Law and my Sister-in-Law brought their beautiful baby boy into my studio late one evening and we played around with some new set ups...one being "The Stork Baby"!!

(Thanks to Molly Shields for helping with this shoot...you rock!!)

Family shots was what Mamma wanted.....so that's what we did!!

I LOVE how they turned out!!

ENJOY!!

Cops, Cold, and Cuddles....

2011-11-16T21:08:00.000-08:00

The last time I captured this family was when Mamma was barely pregnant and wanted a family portrait with all their dogs!! (remember)

Now the bump is a baby boy and OH SO SERIOUS!!

We tried everything to crack a smile...next time Mr. I will see that smile of yours!!

This location is just down the street from my Home Studio and we were stopped by a City Worker and then a Park Cop drove by and the wind was sure out in full force that day!!

SOOOO happy I have troopers for clients!!

ENJOY!

Bohnam Boy....

2011-11-16T18:41:00.000-08:00

6 month Baby Bohnam came to visit me in the studio the other week!!

I was looking forward to this session for awhile as I've grown to love this family!

He was the sweetest little peanut at his newborn session and the most playful boy in the studio!!

ENJOY!

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Last but not least....

2011-11-02T20:50:00.001-07:00

What year this has been!!!

This little man has been coming to me for a whole year now!!

This was the last of a year long booking!!

We some how got busy over the summer and wasn't able to capture the 1 year mark but we made up for it at the 18 month mark!!!

He has definitely grown into his own and is a mover and shaker for sure!!

ENJOY!

2012 Senior Beauty....

2011-10-17T12:29:00.000-07:00

What a Beautiful Day with a Beautiful Girl!!

I don't capture that many Seniors,

but when I do have the chance they always seem to "bring it"!

I wish I was this confident when I was in High School.

This amazing girl will go far in life as she loves all things art, music, and theater!

Good Luck Katja ....life is JUST beginning!!

ENJOY

Falling for Spring....

2011-10-11T20:27:00.000-07:00

Little Lady Adee has come back again!!!
I LOVE seeing past clients come back...it's so much fun to see families/kids grow!!!
We decided to have a studio session in the Fall as Mom had lot's of spring dresses that Miss Adee never got to wear!
So think SPRING and ENJOY!!

PS: Can you tell how much fun we had?!

Cousin's for Christmas.....

2011-10-09T12:40:00.000-07:00

I normally shy away from shoots like these as they tend to be allot of work!!

This session was no exception!!

I brought along an assistant to help out....Daphne Christenson did a great job!!

The kids seemed to be having loads of fun even with the cold breeze!

Thanks to Jordan (one of the moms) for setting this up and having some AMAZING props and a beautiful house to work with!!!

ENJOY

Family and 6 year olds....

2011-08-01T16:19:00.001-07:00

This session was fun as always with this family...we are practically related anyways!!

Checked out a new location that I'm pretty excited to go back to it again!!

We also did a combo family session along with 6 year images of their daughter!!

(Whom I've captured since birth!!)

Love how they turned out!!

ENJOY!!

Family , Family, Family....

2011-08-01T09:19:00.000-07:00

We have been having some HOT summer days here in MN but that hasn't deterred some amazing families from having their portraits taken!!

This family was doing some fun 'cousin' images for their Grandmothers up and coming Birthday!!

We found a great location to keep us some what cool....being 9 months pregnant I was sweating buckets anyways!! LOL

I've included some some images at the end just cuz I like them!!

ENJOY!!

Maternity LOVE....

2011-07-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

And OF COURSE last but not least....the ever waiting for the arrival of our baby #2

(aka: Little Bean)

I had a blast with Jennifer Billman from Jennifer Brooke Photography the other day!
We played around with different lighting and settings and came up with some amazing photo's!!
Here is a sneak peek from the session.

I can't wait to see more!!

ENJOY!!

John & Elizabeth Kennedy 2011...

2011-07-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

A major event of this Summer was the wedding between
John Kennedy and my BEST friend Elizabeth Bolton!!

I couldn't have been happier for the two of them....and what a day they had!

Since I was in the wedding it was really hard to capture all the images I wanted too,

but here are a few I was able to sneak in!!

ENJOY!

Gooseberry Falls 2011...

2011-07-12T11:30:00.000-07:00

Well it's been too long since I've posted something on my blog!!

It's been busy around here with summer activities and it's been a blast!

My family LOVES to go camping and this year one of our trips was to Gooseberry Falls!

It was beautiful and amazing!!

Here are just some of my favorite images taken that weekend!!

ENJOY!!

School House Love....

2011-06-12T13:11:00.000-07:00

This family is just SO darn cute I can't stand it!!

Three adorable boys and two wonderful parents!!

I took their family portraits about two years ago....take a peek back in time!

You may remember the two older boys from here and the youngest from here!!

This family was up for a new location and it turned out perfect!!

Love the CLASSIC SUMMER feeling you get when you look at these images!!

ENJOY

MOPS Mini Sessions....

2011-05-17T17:54:00.000-07:00

Grace Fellowship MOPS held their Annual Fundraiser in the form of

Mini Sessions again this year!!

I had blast being one of the two photographers capturing some

ADORABLE kids and their beautiful parents!!

Thank you to all the volunteers who were willing to brave the rain... had it come down!!

Super long post but I wanted to share a few images from each session!!

ENJOY!!

Bonham LOVE....

2011-05-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

What a sweet boy Mr. Bonham was!! (cool name huh?!?!)

He never was fully sleepy for me but was so sweet I could have held him all day!!

This was an "In Home" session and I'm so glad to have traveled all the way
to Woodbury for this wonderful family!!

Hope you all enjoy it!!

Guthrie LOVE....

2011-05-05T11:06:00.000-07:00

This beautiful family has become such amazing clients and I just LOVE capturing them!!

Their little girl is just full of spunk and doesn't sit still for a minute!!

I pretty much just follow her around and shoot away!!

LOL

She is a doll and so sweet....not to mention SMART!!

-ENJOY

First Time @ The Walker....

2011-04-26T12:29:00.000-07:00

I've been in business for about 6 years now and I've NEVER had the chance to shoot down town Minneapolis at The Walker Art Center!!

I was super excited to find this wonderful family that was just as excited as I was!!

It's a very contemporary location with TONS of options!!

It was a tad chilly during our shoot...so most of our session was inside!

Also found out this wonderful family lives just two blocks away from me!! How cool is that?!?!

Here are some of my favorite shots from the day!!

ENJOY!!

Dancing Ryan....

2011-04-21T12:07:00.000-07:00

Decided to do something fun with Ryan (my daughter this morning).....she LOVES to dance so why not let her go to town in the studio!?!

I LOVE her wrinkled dress....I LOVE her messed up hair...and I LOVE her free spirit!!

I got the idea from my good friend Robin!! She rocks at cool stuff like this!!!

Connor Boy...

2011-03-12T07:34:00.000-08:00

A great friend of mine has so graciously allowed me to capture her two children over the last 6 years....some for portfolio building, some just for fun!!

Her youngest is now 3!!! I can't believe how time flies!!

We just took a few images of Connor in my studio with his Dump Truck to see the progression from his newborn images to now....here he is as a one year old!!

Connor is a "BOY" thru and thru and I can't wait to see what this year holds for him!!

ENJOY!!

Mr. Big Boy Now....

2011-03-11T11:06:00.000-08:00

Dear Sweet Logan came back to visit me at 6 months and what fun he was!!

(take a peak at his newborn session)

Mamma wanted to wait till he was sitting up on his own and I totally agree with that!

This way we didn't have to worry about him plopping over and hurting himself!

He loved his Twins Baseball cap as did I...I think it went perfect with the newspaper set up!!

We got so many cute set ups and what a doll he was!!

ENJOY!!

Angel LOVE....

2011-03-08T12:00:00.000-08:00

Little Miss Clara came to me about 3 weeks ago and she brought the most loving family with her!! Her Big Brother was the best EVER...so sweet and so eager to hold her!!

We got lots of eyes open and lots of sleepy shots!!

I could have captured Miss Clara all day if her parents let me!!

She was a trooper!!

I must say she was also JG Photography FIRST....NO POOPING the entire session!!

One big pee and she was all set!!

ENJOY!!

Dr. Nichole Hamel....

2011-02-26T13:41:00.000-08:00

This session was a bit out of the "norm" for me ....but I was up for it!!!

I just adore this women who I have captured her family a few times in the past!!

She has owned her own business for quite awhile now!!

She is finally creating her very own website!!

I hope these images give you a taste of what type of work she does!!

Good Luck with the new site Dr. Hamel...can't wait to see it!!!

ENJOY!!

Casting Call Beauties....

2011-02-26T06:38:00.001-08:00

Well finally it's Ms. Izzy's big debut!!!

She was born about 5 weeks pre-mature and was 6 weeks old at the time of this session!!

Despite being the oldest newborn I've ever captured.....She was WONDERFUL!!

Her eye contact was great and and yet when it was time to sleep she was sleepy!!!

I couldn't ask for anything more!!

ENJOY!!

Newborn Casting Call Success....

2011-02-22T11:19:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to update everyone on the Newborn Casting Call that Molly from Molly Shields Photography and I had the other weekend!!

It went SO great and we had wonderful babies to work with!!

First off is beautiful baby Veda!!

She was so sweet and so easy to work with...as were her parents!!

Mom and Dad sat back and relaxed the entire time...they were having a date "day" apart from their other 2 children back at home with Grandma!!

ENJOY!!

Mr. Nolan 9 months....

2011-02-16T20:46:00.000-08:00

Mr. Nolan has come back again!!

I just adore this little man!!

He always comes ready for the camera and full of smiles and wonder!!

He is still as chunky as ever and I love it!!!

I only have one more session with him till I only see him once a year..."tear"

Till your 1st birthday Mr. Nolan!!

ENJOY!!

Little Miss E. turns 1....

2011-02-03T12:57:00.000-08:00

This little cutie came to my studio a few weeks ago!!

I hadn't seen he since she was only a few days old!!

She was super shy and clingy to Mom at first... but as soon as she found her favorite basket she was HOOKED!!

At the end we a did mini cake eating session that was full of laughs and few tears over the icing!

LOL

ENJOY!!

2011-01-20T15:26:00.000-08:00

Two photographers coming together to combine their love for Newborn Photography!!

Session is FREE along with a FREE 8x10 enlargement!!

If you are due or know anyone due with in the first week of February

PLEASE contact Jennie or Molly at the addresses below!

Loads of fun new props will be available!!!!

Limited number of spots!!

Contact SOON!

jennie@jenniegaskins.com

mollycshields@gmail.com

Click here to see Molly's work!!

Made In Minnesota.....

2010-12-12T07:06:00.000-08:00

OK everyone...this is my Cherry Spoon Project BLOG!!!

I've been working on this set up since I posted the Sand Baby Project!!

I have to give shout outs to some WONDERFUL people....

Katie Cottingham for brainstorming with me and finding the perfect baby model.

Kelly for producing such a beautiful baby girl for this shoot!

Robert Gaskins (my amazing husband) for working SO hard on bringing this spoon to life!!

And last but not least Molly Shields for being my assistant for the day!!

You ALL made this possible!!

Of course Molly and I had to play with more props and setups after we conquered the spoon!!

ENJOY!!

Winter Wonder....

2010-12-11T20:32:00.000-08:00

My first session booked and captured from my Black Friday Special!!

This was a special session as this fun couple is pregnant with their first child and just getting past the morning sickness stage!

Also "the girls" (dogs) were awfully important in this shoot as one little girl only has a few weeks left ...cancer :(

I was super excited to meet this family and get to capture their love for each other and their four legged friends!

Those cute girls were up for anything and mom kept promising them coffee from Caribou!!

LOL

You had to be there...it was adorable how they responded!!

Enjoy!!

Arizona Beauties....

2010-11-17T07:35:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of capturing this wonderful family while in AZ a few weeks ago!!

We chose a location full of Desert foliage and at sunset to capture the glow of the AZ sun!!

These two girls kept me on my toes and I pretty much just let them be themselves while I snapped away along side them!!

I especially love to capture tender moments between family members...as those are the images you want to remember forever!!!

ENJOY!!

Black Friday Special....

2010-11-16T14:04:00.000-08:00

The deal of the century is only 10 days away!!

I have put together my FIRST ever Black Friday Special!!

It will go on Sale Midnight November 25th and be up till Midnight on November 26th!!

How it works: Purchase your package in full on Black Friday; then book your session anytime during the next whole year!! You have from November 26th, 2010 - December 31st, 2011 to book your session! How amazing is that?!?!

The link below will get you to my online shopping cart BUT the "Black Friday Special" will only be available on November 26th!! So be sure to click the link on Black Friday and purchase your session!!

Click HERE to purchase the special!!

This special can be used for any type of session (minus large family groups): Family Sessions, Newborn sessions, 6 months, one year, engagement, boudoir, trash the dress, etc!!!

This would also make WONDERFUL Christmas gift for a loved one this holiday season!!

Q: Can I add more images to my High Res. CD?

A: Absolutely!! I have created an option to add as many images as you like to your CD on the day you purchase your package. They are priced at $20 per image.

Q: What if I would like to order more prints? Is there an option for that?

A: Once you have booked and completed your session you will receive a link to your private web gallery. Here you can view, share and order to your hearts content!! (there is a $150 minimum print order with in my shopping cart....FYI)

If you would like more information on my print pricing please email me and I would gladly send you more info!! (jennie@jenniegaskins.com)

A Mile in Her Shoes....

2010-11-15T14:57:00.000-08:00

This session is entitled "A Mile in Her Shoes..." because of the fact that this session was to commemorate 5 years of being Cancer free!!

What great reason to be captured in front of the lens!!

I had the opportunity to shoot this young lady on my trip to Arizona!

I had a blast as we walked and talked!

We even had tea in the desert!! Ha Ha Ha...not really but how cute it turned out!!

ENJOY!!

Good Friends....

2010-11-05T10:16:00.000-07:00

Had a friend in need of an updated family photo!!

Jennie to the rescue I said!!

You may recognize this family as I've captured their kids since the oldest was 1years old!!

LOVE watching families grow and change!!

ENJOY!!

Rock-n-Roll...

2010-11-05T10:02:00.000-07:00

I think I have met my match!!

Remember the Rock family?!

Well they decided to come back for some fall pix and their adorable daughter had me run'n for my money...and boy was she fast!!!

She finally slowed down but only to give out hugs and kisses!!

Next time I think I will wear my running shoes!!

Enjoy!!

Puppy Love #2....

2010-11-02T18:12:00.000-07:00

Well folks....the wonderfully adorable puppies came back!!!

This time they were about 6 weeks old and almost ready to join their own families!

The neat thing about this bunch is that there were 3 sets of twins in the liter!! Take a look and tell me that's not cute??!!

If you don't remember how tiny they were at one week old click here!

OH and the last image on this blog was literally the last shot taken of the evening!!

ENJOY!!

The Glow of Sunset and Fall....

2010-11-02T17:41:00.000-07:00

Well I'm back from my travels yet again!! Two trips in one month...WOW I'm tired!!

With out further ado I introduce to you the Blanck Family of four!!

Mom fell in love with this location after seeing some previous sessions I have done here.

I don't blame her as it's one of my FAVORITE locations ...especially at Sunset!!!

As you can see we had some amazing fall colors and the sunset glow was also just brilliant!!

ENJOY!!

Savanna Senior....

2010-10-17T23:01:00.000-07:00

So I've discovered a new love in my line of work.

SENIORS!!

Well girl seniors that is...they are so much fun and even if they are leery at first they warm up fast and LOVE to "work it" for the camera!!

This young lady is a blue eyed brunette beauty!!

She came with her dad which was fun as he left us to our business and was a good sport to carry his daughter's change of clothes!!

Our original location was more of a garden feel but a week before the session we switched it to good old down town Anoka!!

ENJOY!

Model Annie Madness....

2010-10-13T11:19:00.000-07:00

My wonderful senior last Saturday night couldn't have been MORE photogenic!!

Annie LOVES water and requested a lake for her senior pictures...what screams Minneapolis and water more then Lake Harriet?!

So that's were we went!

This young lady is the oldest of 4 and the camera just LOVED her!!

I apologize again for this long post but I'm in LOVE again and again with these images!!

ENJOY!!

6 months of love....

2010-10-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

This little chubby monkey is part of my "one hit wonder" family and had come back

for his 6 month session!!

He has grown quite a bit in the last few months but WHAT A QT!!

Here he was as a peanut.

Mom and Dad joined in again for a few fun fall family shots!!

ENJOY!!

Sweet, Sassy, Senior...

2010-10-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

This senior session was probably one of the best sessions I've had in a long time!! I loved every minute of it....she was not afraid to be herself and I didn't have to pry anything out of her!! She was such a natural in front of the camera that we got some AMAZING shots and TONS of variety!! This session was held at Lake Calhoun at sunset!! LOVE me some SUNSET sessions!! Sorry for the long post but I'm just in love with these images!!

ENJOY!!

House of BOYS....

2010-09-28T22:09:00.000-07:00

This session was such a fun session ...with 4 boys all under the age of 4 how could it NOT?!

This session was originally ganna be about the boys but Dad ended up being able to come after all so we got a few of everyone!!

These boys were full of energy and loving their Grandparents -Neighbors back yard!!

I must say I LOVED it too!!

There were bridges, rock river beads, arch ways, flowers, and even a cool log cabin in the back!!!

Such handsome boys...

ENJOY

Sand Baby Project....

2010-09-22T16:06:00.000-07:00

OK Everyone this has been ALONG time coming!!!

Are you holding onto your seats!?!

I have had this urge to do a personal project involving newborns for long while.
I wanted something organic, unexpected, and challenging!!
This project was ALL those wrapped in one!

I had a lot of feed back and help from friends, fellow photographers, my husband and of course my wonderful client that helped out with this new venture!!
I could not have braved this with out help and I THANK each and everyone of you!!

The images you are about to see are NOT your typical newborn session...this is something I don't think needs to be repeated or offered for a paid session!!!
This is just something I've had in my head for awhile and needed to get out!!

Having said all that...I hope you enjoy what you see from a more Artistic point of view!!

FALL Mini Session's....

2010-09-22T10:34:00.000-07:00

OK everyone ...You asked for them...FALL MINI SESSIONS

I will only be holding a few spots .... if more are interested I may open up more time slots!

Super excited as the location is shown in the images below!!

The Mississippi River is the perfect place to show off your family for Christmas Cards!!

See time slots below ...first come first serve.

Email me at Jennie@jenniegaskins.com

Saturday October 16th

4:40pm - Available

5:00pm - Available

5:20pm - Available

5:40pm - Available

6:00pm - Available

3x3 Accordion Examples....

2010-09-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

As I promised a few examples of the VERY cute 3x3 accordion books!!

Early Bird Mini's....

2010-09-07T11:57:00.000-07:00

I have gotten quite a bit of emails in regards to Mini Sessions and decided to host an EARLY BIRD MINI SESSION!!

You will notice that there are only a few slots booked as I want to give my clients more attention to their session and also to the work I put into the processing of their images!

I like to be booked but not OVER booked!

Please sign up soon as I'm sure these slots will fill up fast!

My next blog will have some examples of the VERY cute Accordion books

being offered with these Mini's!!

Time slots are as follows:

9:00am - Available

9:20am - Available

9:40am - Available

10:00am - Available

Birthday Girl turns ONE....

2010-09-02T13:55:00.000-07:00

Meet Miss Adee!! You may remember her from this session back a few months ago?!

I LOVE when I can see my little clients grow up thru out the year!!

Mom signed up for the "Lazy Summer Days" special and it was OH so FUN!!

We started off by having a her very first Tea Party in her room!!

She LOVED her treats and the sound the cups made when they crashed to the floor!

LOL

We then headed outside for a Cake smashing event!

Their neighbor was nice enough to let us use their yard!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ADEE!!

ENJOY

S2R Rocks....

2010-08-29T15:04:00.000-07:00

The other night I had the pleasure to shoot along side and assist my good friend and great photographer ROBIN!!

This band is called Slaves To Righteousness!!

A few months back they had a session set up with Robin and due to weather ended up in her studio...(which ROCKED I might add....see here)

With such great weather this was their chance to get outside and go down town!

I got to tag along and had loads of fun!!

It was SO nice NOT be the one in charge for a change and just shoot candid and experiment with different camera settings!! At one point Robin leaned over and asked what I was shooting....I honestly looked down at my camera and said "I'm ALL over the place and my settings are jacked right now!!" LOL I had the freedom to play with light as the sun was setting and use more of a creative eye then I normally get to on most sessions!!

I LOVE how these images turned out and hope they do too!!

To read more about their story please visit Robin's site and also to see her images of this FUN session!!

ENJOY!!

Puppy Love....

2010-08-28T19:47:00.000-07:00

My friend Rachel called last night saying she had an idea for me!!

Her mother-in-law was in town and had brought along her dog Kai and her bran new ONE WEEK old puppies!!

I of course was super excited to capture these tiny guys. I had never captured puppies that small before and was totally up for it!!

SOOOO at 9:30pm they all came over for their big debut!!

I invited my good friend Robin to join in on the fun!!

Claire (robin's daughter that is obsessed with animals) and her friend Jacy came along too!!

Info on the puppies:

They are a Bichon Frise/Shih Tzu mix other wise known as “Teddy Bear” puppies.

They came all the way from WI which is a 6 hr drive!!

Here’s proud mama – Kai – with her babies! :-)

ENJOY!!

It's PERSONAL....

2010-08-22T11:49:00.001-07:00

This BLOG is a bit PERSONAL to me!!!

I have posted some images below of my little girl Ryan!

(These images were taken at two separate sessions from this month!)

Because it's a personal blog I wanted to switch up my water mark just a bit!

I also wanted to play with some colors for the backgrounds!

Take NOTE of a few things: These are both two NEW locations ....both available to my clients and are super close to my home studio!!

I want to start share some personal projects I do through out the year....most of you know (but some may not) that I'm pretty creative and crafty! I make my own head pieces and have given some thought to displaying them on my blog and offering them FOR SALE!!!

(Stay tuned for more info on those!!)

If you will also notice the black and white dress in the "Red Barn" images....

this was also made by "yours truly"!

I have always been HANDS on in my sessions....from painting props to be a better suit to what I'm looking for...to even teaching myself how to knit (still working on perfecting that)...to reupholstering a wing back chair...to having a friend come and help paint backdrops!!

I see potential in many things that others may not see and I believe that is what makes my sessions more unique!

I love collaborating with clients about outfits and ideas!

I love having my clients trust my creativity...from a twin size bed in a field to a beat up chair IN the river!!

These are things I want to explore more of....

these are the things that make my heart SKIP A

BEAT!!

ENJOY

Lazy Summer Days "Special"....

2010-08-07T09:46:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!!!

I can't believe that August is upon us ...I feel like the summer just went by WAY too fast!!

This past week I've felt super lazy...sleeping in, hang'n out in the hammock, swimming with my daughter, and boating with the family!!

In honor of a such a great summer I wanted to offer a GREAT summer package!!

This package is running thru the month of August ONLY so act quick before the summer is REALLY gone and the kids are back in school!!

Contact me at Jennie@jenniegaskins.com to set up your session!!

Thanks & Hope to see ya around!!

Better & Better....

2010-07-27T16:15:00.000-07:00

What a GREAT newborn session this was!!!

Although this session "looks" like a wonderful peacefully sleepy session it was full of cuddles, swaddling, noise machines, space heaters and feedings to keep him asleep!!

Some babies don't like to miss a moment of their big debut!

We had a laundry pile by the time we were done that afternoon but it was ALL worth it as I am in LOVE with these images!!

The story behind "The Dad" image is Mom really wanted some with father and son but Dad just had some surgery on his face from a baseball accident! He looked better then what Mom had described so it wasn't too hard to just turn him sideways and capture the un-bruised side of his face! I think it's one of my all time favorite shots now!!

ENJOY!!

All grown up....

2010-07-21T07:22:00.000-07:00

So I found this toddler bed at a garage sale for $5 and just HAD to use it right away!! I did some tweaking to the bed to make is stable before I used it but I'm in love with it!!

This session was a 6 month session and we carted that bed down to "The River" location! We only got a few shots with the bed but it was worth it!!

You may remember this little man from his newborn session!

Grandma joined in the fun again and she was just oh so sweet with her grandson!!

She was visiting all the way from Nigeria!! (Safe travels home Grandma)

Grandma kept telling me he was SO smilie in the car ride over but only gave me mainly serious looks!! We cracked a laugh out of him here and there but his eyes are what drew ME in!!

I hope you like this session as much as I do!!

ENJOY

(oh and did I mention I LOVE his fau hawk??!!)

Anoka Madness....

2010-07-16T06:40:00.000-07:00

What a GREAT session this was!!

It was VERY eventful ....from the Abby Roads cross walk ...to rock tower.... to falling into the Rum River!! LOL

I took a different approach with this family as I knew the kids like to explore....I acted more or less like a photojournalist and followed them around with a few stops for a group family photo's!!

I must also mention that the Mom is my daughters Daycare Provider!! She is amazing and has such a heart for pre-school aged children and ROCKS at it!!

My daughter just can't wait to go to "Monique's Little Munchkins" in the morning!!

Check her out!

ENJOY

All American Family....

2010-06-30T20:25:00.000-07:00

I have entitled this blog "All American Family" for the simple fact that it's coming up on the 4th of July and I wanted to leave you all with something "All American"!!

This wonderful family of 6 gave me the freedom and permission to be as creative as I need be!! I LOVED that!!

I've been wanting to take a bed out to "The Barn" location for some time and this was the perfect family to do it with!!

Such beautiful children all FULL of life!!

There were so many tender moments to be captured between all of them that I had a hard time choosing which ones to share with you!!

I hope the ones you see today can give you a glimpse into what this family is like?!

And also how beautiful the life of a family can be!

ENJOY!

Toddlers & Baby Dolls....

2010-06-24T14:08:00.000-07:00

Meet this wonderful family of Four!

Our plan for the session was to capture their beautiful 2 month old baby girl and get a few family shots if we could!

WELLLLL that kind of all changed when Mr. Toddler Man decided he didn't want to be in the pictures he just wanted to TAKE the pictures!!

I handed him my old 20D and let him go to town!!

HA HA HA

Baby Sister looked like a Real Live Baby Doll and had the most beautiful blue eyes!!

She had some tummy issues that day and pretty much cried the entire time...she finally decided to take a quick nap...and by quick I mean like 2 minutes...no joke!!

But I snapped fast and boy is she PRETTY!!

Would LOVE to capture her again some time!!

ENJOY!!

Elliott Twins ....Part 3

2010-06-21T13:53:00.000-07:00

YAHOOOO Part 3!!! This one is my favorite!!

I just fell in love with the two of them together!!

It's such a neat bond twins have and they loved being near each other...they seem to fall asleep better when next to each other!

Although there was some pooping and LOT's of PEEING it went better then expected!!

I can't wait for my next set!!!

ENJOY!!

Elliott Twins .... Part 2

2010-06-21T13:16:00.000-07:00

Mr. Hudson is of course Part 2 of a 3 part blog!!

He was the first one asleep and he was OH so GOOD!!

He was of course quite bigger then his sister and had just a tad of jaundice!

I wish I had a HAT montage of Mr. Hudson but alas we didn't have as many boy head pieces we did girly ones!! LOL

ENJOY!!

Elliott Twins...Part 1

2010-06-21T12:47:00.000-07:00

FINALLY it's here!!

My first set of twins!!

I'm am super excited to post Part 1 of a 3 part blog!!

Little Miss Harper was oh so Sweet and oh so Sassy! As she should be seeing as how she was much much smaller then her brother!

Mom brought some wonderful headpieces (a lot of them i should say...she was board on her 3month bed rest...LOL) We mixed what I already had and what Mom brought and got TONS of hat shots!!

ENJOY!!

Beautiful Baby Boy....

2010-06-15T22:03:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited to post this blog!!

This little man is #3 of three boys!!

I met his Mom at a local Mom's Club in our area.

Our kids were in the same play group and what great kids I must say.

You might remember this family from this post and this post!?!

I must say a few things about this session that stood out to me!

First off his SKIN was the most amazing skin I have worked with to date!!

I was super jealous myself and wish all babies I capture could have this

amazingly smooth/blemish free skin! "sigh"

Second: notice in the image with older brothers....the darling boy wearing glasses....this was his first time holding his baby brother and you can just see the pride in his eyes!! He LOVED it!!

I had fun just hang'n out with a darling friend this session and got some great images!

ENJOY!

Sunshine and little heaters....

2010-06-07T22:33:00.000-07:00

Mr. "C" was SO good!

He was super sleepy and WARM...who knew such little guys could give off so much heat?!

This session had two location (at home and a favorite family park)

It was an amazing day outside and after being with Mr. Heater inside,

it felt good to get outside for a bit!

LOL

Mom had found this amazing green hat and matching diaper cover on Etsy and I just fell in love!!

ENJOY!

Windy, Chilly, and Blue Eyes...

2010-05-20T13:42:00.001-07:00

What a CUTE family huh?!

As you can see this session was held at "The Barn"

Which I sadly must say might have been my last session at this location!

It will be torn down soon by the city...it's also seen it's days!

It was a perfectly overcast day BUT a bit chilly and windy!

Little Miss Blue Eyed girl didn't cry at all..she was a rockstar!!

Speaking of blue eyes...check hers out...they will blow you away!!

Hope to see you again guys!!

ENJOY!!

"Rush" on over....

2010-05-18T08:07:00.000-07:00

Well if any of you blog readers have wondered onto my blog looking for a wedding photographer I'm sorry to disappoint you!!!

BUT this blog may be helpful to you!!

I have worked with Rush Creek Golf Club for a couple years doing odd photo jobs.

I was super excited about this request as they have just UPDATED there facility!!

It looks amazing!!

Check out the ball rooms new carpet and new chairs!!!

Rush Creek was named "Best Reception Site" by the readers of Minnesota Bride Magazine in June of 2006 . Just recently they were also voted the "Best of Weddings" by Theknot.com for 2010!!

GREAT job guys!!

If you would like to book your event at Rush Creek contact the WONDERFUL ladies in the Event Coordinating office (Kendra & Lisa)!! They will take good care of you and your guests!!

ENJOY!

Little Miss "L"....

2010-05-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

What a cute blue eyed girl little Miss "L" was!!

This was my second time capturing this beautiful family!

Miss "L" is the youngest and now a year old and OH SO funny!!

She took awhile to open up....she was wondering what that big black box was that I kept putting up in front of my face!! LOL

Mommy started acting silly and then she was ALL smiles and rolling with laughter!!

AAAHHH there is nothing like the connection between a baby and her Mom!!

ENJOY!!

Baby Nolan....

2010-05-07T15:10:00.000-07:00

What a sweet baby boy I had in the studio the other day!

We had to push his session back due to some jaundice but thankfully that all cleared up with no complications!

Dad joined us for the first half of the session and we got some tender shots of Father & Son together.

Later in the session Mom told me that Dad is just smitten with his son ...I LOVE little secrets like that!

ENJOY

PS: This little boy is part of a special series I'm doing that wont be revealed till next year!!!

He is also part of my "One Hit Wonder" family....so more of him coming this fall!!

One Year Birthday Love....

2010-05-04T16:21:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since my last post....I've been busy with a successful fundraiser for a local MOPS group! We had 26 different families sign up for the Spring Mini Session! My favorite images from that weekend will be coming up in my next blog post!

Shortly after the Mini Sessions had ended I meet this lovely family down at St. Anthony Main for some family shots and for some one year birthday shots!! It happened to be this sweet little girls ACTUAL Birthday the day of their session!

I love how just a stroll down a street can turn into family memories!!

ENJOY!!

I've been FEATURED...

2010-04-21T06:41:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share with everyone some exciting news.

I have been featured for the FIRST time!! I'm on Andie Smith Designs blog!!

She is an amazing designer for photographers creating everything from templates for cards, story boards to textures, brushes, and much much more!!

I know this might not excite you blog followers but her items are what make us photographers look good!!

I have also appeared in a dear friends blog this past week as she wanted to use my daughter for some test shots....she of course twisted my arm and took some shots of me too...check out ROBIN she is amazing!!

OK so I can't write up a blog post with out posting a picture.

Little Miss "E" was captured yesterday down at St. Anthony Main....which happened to be her ACTUAL One Year Birthday!!

Happy Birthday Miss "E"!!

Props...Props...Props....

2010-04-11T21:26:00.000-07:00

For those of you wonderful people that signed up for the Spring Mini Sessions hosted at Grace Fellowship Church this up coming weekend....

A sneak peek of a few props that I will be towing with me!

??OUTFITS??

This has been a big question for many of you...

One tip: Coordinate but don't match!

Swing of Things...

2010-04-04T23:35:00.000-07:00

Well I'm getting back into the swing of things OUTSIDE the studio!!

Here is a family that about 6months ago I captured their little boy as a newborn.

I was super excited to meet the entire family this time around!

(In their beautiful home I might add)

We wondered from room to room allowing the kids to take the lead and went with the flow ...but I must say the flow was very easy going with tons of smiles and song entitled

"Little Man Little Man"!!

Enjoy!!

Irish Love...

2010-03-26T09:56:00.000-07:00

Such a SWEET family of three this was!!

I finally got out of my studio for an on location shoot and it was NICE!!

They had the perfect little sun room all nice and toasty warm when I arrived!

This little Irish man had the most adorable lips, cheeks and skin!!

I will admit I felt rusty shooting natural light with a newborn as I've been so use to my studio lights all winter .... I think I got the hang of it pretty quickly!

ENJOY!!

Oldie But A Goodie...

2010-03-24T13:08:00.000-07:00

This little girl just blew my socks off!!

Her mother had contacted me the day she turned 2 weeks old and I was hesitant only because at the 2 week mark most babies are awake longer and like to stretch out their arms and legs.

Her baby girl had had some temperature issues and need to keep her bundled up for the first 14 days of her life :(

But we decided to "Go for it"!!

I'm SO glad we did as she just proved us wrong!! She slept the entire time except for about 20minutes to eat and then right back asleep she went!!

She gave me time to practise with some new props...Baby Buggy, Fur Rug, Square Basket, and Head Band (made my yours truly)

I was thoroughly impressed with this beautiful baby girl!

ENJOY

Field of Dreams....

2010-03-23T22:50:00.000-07:00

HELLOOOOO new field!!!

I'm in LOVE....I totally scoped this place out a few months back and just knew it would be a great place for photos!!

My daughter Ryan actually said "YES" to having her pictures taken but really I think she just wanted to RUN in the field...can't blame her it was just wide open and free!!

This field is super similar to the one I will be doing my Spring Mini Sessions at and also right across the way!

Note the pants (Matilda Jane), head band (made by yours truly), and chair......all just a few items available to my clients!

ENJOY

Grace & Beauty....

2010-03-19T12:23:00.000-07:00

This little Angel was in my studio about two weeks ago and she just looked divine in purple!!

She was awake for the first half and fell asleep for second....

We got a GREAT combo of eyes wide open shots and super sleepy shots!!

I hope you all ENJOY!!

SPRING mini......

2010-03-13T05:55:00.000-08:00

OK the long awaited announcement about this years "Spring Mini Session" has arrived!!!

It's ganna be a bit different this year....

1st of all it will be held OUTSIDE!!

(YIPPEE....I'm ready for winter to be over and to get out of the studio!!)

2nd it's a fundraiser for a local MOPS group!!

(MOPS = Mother's Of Pre-Schoolers)

Be sure to read all the information below as I am NOT the contact person....we want to keep all the scheduling information in one area so lovely Kim Anderson will be handling the phone calls and emails for those of you wanting to sign up!!

Kim@joelandkim.net

As you can see the location is at Grace Fellowship Church were we will be using the wonderful old abandon farm fields behind the church parking lot!!

I have LOTS of idea's for you all so come ready to have fun!!!

Sleepless Beauty....

2010-03-10T21:45:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful little lady!!

She was just at the two week mark and wide awake.

She didn't want to miss a moment of her big debut!!

We did some how catch some sleepy shots during a very brief cat nap.

EVERY newborn session has a pooping story...this one somehow landed on Mom's bottom and I had the honors of cleaning it! I LOVE my clients!!

I hope you enjoy this beauty as much as I did!!

Tax break...

2010-03-09T10:58:00.000-08:00

Well this week is dedicated to taxes!! YUCK! But it must get done!

I took a break from taxes to share this post...

I had a dear friend in my studio last night taking some images of her good friends baby!

I must say it was different being the on looker and helping out here and there....however I couldn't resist and had to pick up my camera!!

I only took 5 snaps but they were worth it!!

Enjoy!!

(both hats made by Virginia George)

Walk in Cuteness....

2010-03-03T05:17:00.001-08:00

Well folks I had a "walk-in" the other week and boy was I pleasantly surprised!!

This little QT was all smiles the day I met her and all through her session a few days later!

Here Dad was a firefighter and had just gotten off work...what a trooper!!

Her Mom brought in a dress that she had worn when she was a little girl and boy was it cute!!

ENJOY!!

(Brown hat made by Virginia George / Flower headband made by yours truly)

Baby "E"....

2010-02-28T10:46:00.000-08:00

Announcing another newborn ...this time a beautiful girl!

She came in the studio sound asleep and soon after woke up to show off her amazing blue eyes.

It took her awhile to fall asleep again....she didn't want to miss a thing!!

I love how sweet these images turned out!

I also have to give a shout out to my good friend Rachel for helping me paint an amazing canvas backdrop for this years up coming spring sessions!

I LOVE how the colors blend together so nicely!!

Congrats Mom and Dad!!

ENJOY!!

lickity split....

2010-02-12T15:49:00.001-08:00

I named this blog "lickity split...." because I just captured this family on Wednesday evening in my studio!! (I couldn't wait to share this session)

I met this wonderful woman from a friend of a friend of a friend....LOL

She is an amazing knitter and made this wonderful blue and white stripped hat you see below!

She has made many more things that you will see soon in up coming blogs....check her out at http://onebighappy.etsy.com/

ENJOY

Best Friend....

2010-02-11T15:22:00.000-08:00

I am the luckiest girl in the world!! I have this wonderful lady as a my best friend!!

She flew into town for the weekend to help celebrate my BIG 3-0!!

We had a blast out at "The Barn" one day and almost froze our toes off!!

Anyway I hope you enjoy these images as I just think the world of her.....isn't she just beautiful?!

Birthday Girl....

2010-01-30T11:57:00.001-08:00

I have fallen in love with this family and have become close friends with their Mom!

Our kids got together to play the other day and they let me shoot some pictures to test out my NEW LIGHTING!!!

I think they came out super cute and just in time for her 4th B-day.....which just happens to fall on MY birthday too!!

Happy Birthday Ray Ray!!

Sam & Colin Married......

2010-01-20T11:21:00.000-08:00

Sam & Colin got married back in October 2009. Little did I know when I booked this wedding that it would be my last! I have decided for 2010 to no longer offer wedding photography. This was a hard decision to make as I love capturing those amazing LOVE filled moments of a wedding day!!

This particular wedding happen to fall on a COLD snowy day! The first frost of the year! The wedding party was brave to allow for some outdoor shots before the ceremony! The wedding form start to finish was just filled with emotion! The groom's mother had passed away a few months before the wedding and tear filled eyes were everywhere! But along with those tears were smiles of joy and lots of hugs!!

I was particularly excited for the reception as it was held at the Varsity Theater in Dinky Town! It is such a cool place and loads of fun to shoot! The most memorable part of the night was a groom's man breaking out in song in the middle of his speech! Loads of laughter filled the theater!

A shout out to my wonderful assistant JoAnna Albers for braving the cold and being my eyes in the back of my head all night!!

Again since this is my last wedding I have posted quite a few extra images ....take your time and ENJOY!

February Give Away...

2010-01-16T09:09:00.000-08:00

Well folks 2010 is in full swing and February is sneaking up on us! Since this is the month known for LOVE, I wanted to show you some LOVE of my own!

Book ANY session with me in the month of February and receive 25 FREE custom made cards! Cards are a wonderful way to show someone you how much you love them, are thinking about them, even a way to share milestones in your life!!

They can be ANY type of card from birth announcments, save the dates, party invites, or cute fun Valentine's day cards!!

BUT my love doesn't stop there....not only will you receive 25 custom cards but also a High Resolution CD containing your favorite 5 images from your session along with a release form!!

For those fans of JG out there...you will be receiving a small package in the mail shortly!!

LOVE ya!

Happy New Year....

2010-01-05T06:11:00.000-08:00

Well the New Year is upon us and I have been working SUPER hard to launch my new brand!

It's official I'm now doing business as http://www.jenniegaskins.com/!

Please take a look and browse around....there is still a little more tweaking to do but feel free to keep checking back!

I will be mailing out some new brochures in a few days as well, so look for some goodies in your mail box!

If you are not on my mailing list and would like to be....please contact me at Jennie@jenniegaskins.com and leave me a message with your address...I would LOVE the oportunity to capture you and yours!

Four Friends...

2009-12-29T00:49:00.000-08:00

Well everyone I know I said I probably wouldn't post anything till the begining of the NEW YEAR but here it is another wonderful session!

These four ladies have been friends for many years and have each grown a family of their own and some of them have even moved out of state. They all happened to be in MN at the same time over the holidays and wanted to capture some memories together!

We started our session playing around at the Guthrie then headed outside in the COLD and ICE for some cute winter shots! After nearly freezing our toes off we headed inside for some Chai Tea to warm up! We headed outside once again to get a few more shots....the Viking's Stadium was a request by one lady that turned out super cute!!

I hope you ladies had fun and also safe travels back home!

ENJOY!

Baby Boy(d)....

2009-12-11T19:19:00.000-08:00

This was such a sweet baby boy!

Baby Boy(d) and his parents were amazing to work with!

He was awake when needed and fell asleep on cue every time!!

He did dirty a few blankets but I only had to jump out of the way once for a peeing boy! LOL

Hope you all enjoy this one as my next post wont be till the start of the NEW YEAR!

I want to thank EVERYONE that has supported me over this year and all my WONDERFUL clients for choosing ME to capture these amazing moments in your life!!

I hope to reveal my new brand (Jennie Gaskins photography) SOON!

Keep check'n back for more updates!!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone!

Home for the Holiday....

2009-12-08T14:16:00.000-08:00

Well folks this was is a special post for me as I use to nanny for this family!

Since then they have added a baby sister...now 2 years old!

Their new baby cousin flew in for the holidays and I got to snap a few of her, capturing the wonderful age of 6months!

All in all it was like "coming home for the holidays"...visiting dear friends and getting some great images for the Christmas Card rush!!

ENJOY!

Blue Eyed Family....

2009-12-03T14:00:00.000-08:00

Well back to Silver Wood Park again with another family of three!

This time it wasn't as cold and with a very handsome little boy!

SUPER laid back family with twin sister in tow!

We had fun learning about my new found Minnesota Accent ....AAAHHHH!!

Thanks for the laughs guys!!

ENJOY!

Guthrie of Fun...

2009-12-01T14:29:00.000-08:00

What an adventure I had with this session!

This session was shot at the Guthrie Theater down town on what seemed to be "Field Trip Day"!!

This family was super laid back and their little girl was a bundle of FUN!!

I learned a new term to get one to smile that day as well...."Barbie"!!!

Thanks for the fun ride you guys!!

ENJOY!

Birthday Cake...

2009-11-29T17:05:00.000-08:00

Part TWO:

Well after our session outside and inside for Christmas Family shots we had a special session all ready to go!

I would have to call this a "Mini-Cake Eating Session"

This little beauty was turning ONE and had never before tasted chocolate!!

Boy did she enjoy it!!

I hope this blog brings a smile to your face as it did mine!

ENJOY!

Christmas Red....

2009-11-29T16:04:00.000-08:00

Part ONE of a TWO part blog:

This family was OH SO cute and had a very beautiful daughter!

We ended up at a new park I found on a cold and breezy day but made the most of it!

After we headed inside to warm up by a very large but gorgeous fireplace and snapped a few more!

ENJOY!

Holiday Cheer....

2009-11-24T21:18:00.000-08:00

You may recognize this little girl from a few months ago...well she was back in the studio for some cute festive 6 month pictures!

We covered the holidays from Halloween all the way to Easter!

LOL

We all had fun and little Miss Holiday Cheer was a trooper thru all the costume changes!

I just LOVE all the different facial expressions she gives each time!

ENJOY!