Capturing Personalities - Captured Keepsakes Senior Portrait Photography

When you come to Captured Keepsakes for senior portraits, you'll get more than good pictures. You'll get images that are not only creative, but specifically suited to your personality. We like to capture who you are and what you're all about. Being a teenager on the verge of adulthood, your entire life is on the precipice of change. In a short period of time, you're either off to college on your own, entering the working world on your own, or staying at home with a different set of expectations from your family. This can be a scary time, but also an exciting time as well. That's why we like to create portraits all about you, who you are and what you're all about. In a short period of time, your life will either play out to what you've always dreamed of, or take you in a totally different, rewarding path. Our goal is to be "Creative with a Purpose". Here we captured Keely (one of our senior models for next year). We asked her what was important to her and went about capturing it in one image. When you decide to get your senior portraits taken, consider what you want, who you are, and what you're all about. Then research photographers to see if they can deliver on your vision.

Winter Stay in Garner State Park - Captured Keepsakes Nature Photography

Every winter we get to visit Garner State Park. Camping in the Winter can be very cold, but it can also be sunny and warm. We got both types of weather in the 4 days we were there. Every morning I get up and wonder the park looking for great images. The scenery is breath-taking. The Frio River runs through the park and it's lined with Bald Cypress trees. Their roots cover the ground showing a glimpse of the underground vascular system and lifeblood of these flora giants. The key to getting great images is the willingness to get into the right position. For example, to get the river image below, I had to get into the water. I wore knee high rubber boots and waded across the rock filled bottom to get to the position I wanted. One of the boots sprang a leak. A slow methodical drip soaked my foot in the frigid water. But I toughed it out to get the shot. When I got back, I had a fire waiting to warm me up and help dry out the wet sock. Some times, going where most people won't go to get the shot rewards me with an image I'll be proud of. The secret to great images (ones you love) is first having a vision, then the willingness to get into position to get it. I've posted several images below.... Enjoy.

First Impressions: San Antonio Head Shot photography

First impressions are huge in the business world; they are also important in other occupational fields as well (politics, law, anyone in the public eye, etc...). I know this sounds really shallow (for I am one that doesn't give as much weight to first impressions but do acknowledge they are real and are here to stay) but the impression you leave on someone the first time you meet them or when they see or read about you on your website, or social media site determines how people will perceive who they think you are. With that said, I once learned of a study conducted in a shopping mall where random people were stopped and shown two images. These images were of political candidates. Each person was asked to choose which one they might vote for. The results were stunning. Nearly 90% of the people chose the winning candidate (the one that was actually elected) solely based on looking at their picture. So what does this have to do with photography? Well, the image you place on your website may help or hurt you when it comes to drawing in new clients/business. You see in still photography, you are captured at one point in time. Unlike video, that one moment in time freezes your persona forever. If you come across as nervous, sad, negative, insincere, etc... it can affect how people perceive you. On the other hand if you come across as happy, inviting, hospitable, sincere, etc... it can boost your business. Lighting and gesture help form the right kind of perceptions. I've posted two images of recent head shot session for comparison (the before images were posted on a web site). This in no way should be taken in any manner other than examining the images and seeing which one you like. The one you like will probably determine which business you select and patronize. Which doctor looks more knowledgeable and caring? Which lawyer looks more trustworthy? Which teacher looks more hospitable and loving? These perceptions help us make decisions that are important (sending our child to school, going through a lawsuit, battling cancer or medical issue). I could write more, but I think the point was made.... These images speak for themselves.

A True Role Model...

I finally had the opportunity to photograph a highly respected High School Football Coach that I've been wanting to photograph for the last several years. I've known him since I was in High School, where he left a huge impression on me in an unusual situation. He came onto our bus after we defeated his state ranked team and congratulated us. In my 13 year football career (plus an additional 6 years coaching), no one has ever repeated that feat. It effected me so much that he was the first person I called when I was deciding whether to go into private school teaching or public school teaching. Anyways, he is a man of integrity and someone I would want my son to play for. When you look in society for a person to look up to, and be a role model, Coach Streety can't be overlooked. You can read more about him on our website, and on our facebook page as well. I love my job....

Sarah, Plain, and Tall....

Sarah came to us from Steele HS. She is anything but plain, however, she is really tall (5'10" to be exact) and she has these incredible, I mean phenomenal blue eyes (they look just like the images, no kidding). She's is our senior rep from Steele HS (get to work girl (;-) ), so you've seen her once before on our blog. She plans on attending Texas Tech (Get Your Guns Up, whoop), where she just got accepted and she'll be study nursing. I see Sarah fitting right in with that profession. Even though she's not your typical cheerleader (the stereotypical loud, outgoing, etc...), she seems reserved, humble, sweet, and honest. She has a heart of gold, so she'll bless many, many patients in her lifetime. Here's a gimpse into her life...

After graduation: attend Texas Tech and study nursing
A Dinner Guest of her choice: my Grandpa (mom's dad), he passed away before I met him
One Wish: equality and happiness in the world
One thing to do to Impact the World: impact at least one person's life positively
Favorite Song: "Crazy Girl" or "Find Your Wings" or "You're in America" or "Springsteen"
Favorite Quote: "She is clothed with strength and dignity and she laughs without fear of the future" - Proverbs 31:25

Here are some more images of her on our site in video format. Sarah, what can I say? You are a true beauty, and to me that means, your insides exceed your outsides. My wish for you is that you continue to be yourself, and live out your favorite quote. Your future is bright, and it truly was a blessing attempting to capture your personality.

Books, Brothers, and a Bugle (Trumpet)...

Xavier came to us from Madison HS. We had the privilege of photographing his two older brothers. Now we've completed the entire family of brother's senior portraits (what an honor). Xavier loves to study, especially math. He's ranked in the top 10% of his graduating class, and wants to attend A&M. He's also in the Band. He plays the trumpet (forgive me for calling it a bugle, but hey, it had to fit in with the B's). Xavier is a character, none of the boys in the family are alike. They all have such different personalities, but are all very respectful and well-mannered (great job Eva). Here's a little glimpse into what Xavier is all about.

After graduation: Have a great summer before college
A Dinner Guest of her choice: Albert Einstein, because I bet he's fun
One Wish: that everyone in the world could be happy
One thing to do to Impact the World: help everyone have at least a good day everyday.
Favorite Song: "Come to the River" by Rhett Walker Band
Favorite Quote: "I think, therefore I am" Rene DesCartes

Here are some more images of him on our site in video format. Xavier your future is bright, brighter than most, keep grounded in your faith, for the future will test it, and when you remain faithful, you will come forth as gold.

Cheering On the Troops....

We had the privilege of photographing the Randolph Varsity Cheer group last week. We had a blast and the girls seemed to have a lot of fun too.... A special thanks to Taylor's mom for helping put this together. Here's a video from the session. Just think if it weren't for cheerleaders, we'd have no one to cheer us up..... ;-)

Contest Winner....

Occasionally I'll enter a photo contest just to see how my images compare to others and see judging styles and tastes in photographs. This one just came across my screen as I was surfing the internet. Not even thinking about winning, I received an email from the contest sponsor informing me that one of my images won the contest. There were almost 5,500 entries. Not only that, but the contest sponsor told me that my 2nd entry got an honorable mention. Pretty cool.... Here's the link if you're interested in reading more about the contest and seeing other entry winners.

Strong and stable base...

Sarah comes to us from Steele HS. She's going to be our CK rep this school year. She's bright, intelligent, outgoing, and a beautiful young lady. Did I mention she's a cheerleader, and not just any cheerleader, but a strong, 5'10" cheerleader. You don't see many of those now-a-days. She's the strong and stable base of the pyramid. The trustworthy one of the group. Kinda like her personality. Her future aspirations are to attend TTU (fingers crossed), where she eventually wants to become a nurse. I'm sure you'll be seeing more of her in the future. ;)

Sarah & Jeremy...

got hitched a few weeks ago. We've known Sarah since she was a little girl. She grew up across the street from us. We also photographed Sarah's senior portraits and while back and it's an honor to be commissioned to photograph such a special event in her life. Watching some one grow up and then getting the opportunity to capture their special day is truly a privilege. The wedding day went just as planned and the two were off on their honeymoon. Here's a short video from the day... Enjoy....

Mr. & Mrs. Woods....

Stephanie and Michael got hitched a few weeks ago. Their wedding was at the Kendall Plantation outside of Boerne, TX. The venue and wedding couldn't have gone on any better for the both of them. Michelle says that there couldn't be a more handsome and beautiful couple on the planet. I wonder what their children will look like? Anyway, we captured many fantastic images from the day and wanted to share a few in a short video. Michael and Stephanie your wedding was one of our favorites in a long time. The only thing that could have been different is that time would've slowed down, it went by way too fast. May your marriage be one of commitment, joy, and most importantly, love (the real kind).

Future Star?

Ellie Kate came to us for some Acting Headshots. She won a pageant and needed some comp cards made for a couple possible movie parts. The movie people requested a red head. One look and there's no question she fits that requirement. Her blue eyes look like marbles in the right light and when she gives you the look, she's simply stunning. Did I mention her cute and bubbly personality? What's not to like? Ellie Kate and her mom had a fun time and we enjoyed their company. They loved the images as well. Hopefully, if EK gets an acting role from these images, we were so glad to help.

Miss Kayla...

came to us from Johnson HS. We photographed her sister a few years ago, and if the Lord allows it, we might photograph her younger sister in the future. Kayla plays softball for Johnson HS. They made a great playoff run this year (so much so, we had to reschedule our session numerous times). Kayla is athletic, caring, a bit shy, but can be a little sassy too. Her mom says she's the princess of the group. During the session, her mom was in charge of the bubbles. During one of the portraits her mom created a powerful stream of bubbles and Kayla was covered in soapy bubbles. We all had a good time and the images turned out fantabulous. More about her:

After graduation: Go to college, maybe the medical field
A Dinner Guest of her choice: Justin Bieber, because he's hot
One Wish: be forever young
One thing to do to Impact the World: help provide resources to everyone (world wide) for education equal opportunites for learning
Favorite Song: "My Wish" by Rascal Flats
Favorite Quote: "I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me" Phil. 4:13

Here are some more images of her on our site, and click here to see a short video from the session. Kayla, you love to have fun and your joyful spirit will only enhance the experience for others. We need more fun in life, so never lose your joy and ability to make others laugh and smile.

Gimme a "T" for Taylor

Taylor will be our RHS CK Rep for next school year. Back in the Fall we did some Homecoming Dance Portraits for some of the RHS students and she liked us enough to call us. The moment you meet her, her outgoing personality draws you in. Her smile is infectious and she's very down to earth. Did I mention she's a cheerleader (probably where she gets her spunkiness from). She also loves to dance (can't you tell by the incredible dance move in the image below?). Anyway, we hope she'll be a great Rep for us this coming school year. You'll be seeing more of her in the future.... For now, enjoy the cool image.

Madison Dollies...

It's hard to believe it's that time of year again. We've been photographing the Madison Dollies for 10 years now. Every year it's always fun to see all the girls get excited and spunky. They practice their creative moves for the final image. This year we had 5 groups do actual jumps. One of the groups went to jump and the paper shifted, the look on their faces was priceless. Everyone got a laugh when I showed them the captured image. Anyway, the images turned out fantanstic and we all had a good time. The one thing that's rewarding about doing what I do is that I get to create moments that will be cherished for many, many years to come. This one is no exception. Here's a short video from the session... Feel free to leave and comment and tell us what you think.... Enjoy...

Giving to Save a Life....

We had the privilege of photographing the Resources for Woman Fundraising Banquet last month. The event raised over $90,000 to help fund a purely, publically-funded clinic for women. The food was great and the entertainment and speaker were wonderful as well. But the coolest thing was the live sonagram performed during the event. As the physician performed the sonagram, he showed the audience the intricate details of a 4 month old baby still in the womb. Seeing the little hands and feet, the tiny face, and the heart beat was incredible. The event was the first for this clinic, and hopefully first of many more to come. People in this world spend their money on so many different kinds of things, but just imagine, if some of that was spent on things that really matter. Like LIFE.... There's nothing like seeing the beating heart of an unborn human being, well maybe holding your own child minutes after being born. Life is a gift... yesterday is the past, tomorrow is the future, but TODAY is the PRESENT. Here's a video from that evening.

Miss Peppie Part Deux....

Rachel came back for her official senior portrait session. You can read more about her first session here. We've had the privilege of getting to know her this year and I must say, she is one of the nicest, down-to-earth, young people I know. Her session covered two days, a creek, field of flowers with bees, and the swing. We got some really great images, and had a good time in the process. More about her:

After graduation: attend UTSA in the Fall of 2014 and major in PreMed to become an Optometrist
A Dinner Guest of her choice: My Grandmother Ma, she passed away a couple of years ago
One Wish: to go on another cruise
Favorite Song: "God Girl" by Jamie Grace
Favorite Quote: "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus" -Phil. 3:14

Here are some more images of her on our site, and click here to see a short video from the session. Rachel, as your mom always says, "You are fearfully and wonderfully made". What you are is God's gift to you. Who you become is your gift to God. So far you've been a great gift. I don't see any reason why you won't become a great mom, and big influence at whatever profession you choose, because your spirit and personality are magnetic. Always remember FEDEX... ;)

It's Complicated....

McKayla is a senior at Clemens HS. She is definitely one-of-a-kind. Her quick-wittedness and boldness to speak her mind set her apart from the crowd. She wants to study nursing in college, but not sure where as of yet. In describing McKayla you'd have to use the following adjectives: talkative, complicated, social, witty, and bold. I would also say she's a realist. The explanation for the title is when I asked McKayla several questions, she answered, "It's complicated", each time. So I guess, "She's complicated". We got along great because I can relate to her personality (hint, hint). We had a fun time capturing her personality and got some great images too....

After graduation: Nursing school, not sure where yet?
A Dinner Guest of her choice: My mom, I can vent to her
One Wish: to drive a BMW
One thing to do to Impact the World: show kids that it all works out eventually, and to never give up
Favorite Song: "Summertime Sadness" by Lana Del Rey
Favorite Quote: "The party never stops"

Here are some more images of her on our site, and click here to see a short video from the session. McKayla, you have a lot of spunk and intelligence. We hope you find an avenue that allows you the latitude to fully express yourself and help others. Your career path is an honorable profession, may it bring you many rewards in life.....

On to the Next Level....

Kyle is a soon to be graduate of Madison HS. He is a football player, and an avid outdoors man. This year the team made it one game away from the state championship, and he was a big part of it. Kyle has plans to play football at the next level in College in Oklahoma. He is funny, outgoing, intelligent, spontaneous, and friendly. The part of the session I'll remember most is taking him in the woods for the hunting images. My son and I got chiggers (forgot to spray). The images turned out, so I guess the sacrifice was worth it..... More about him:

After graduation: Attending Oklahoma Panhandle State University to play football
A Dinner Guest of her choice: My grandma because she passed away a month before I was born
One Wish: have an opportunity to play in the NFL
One thing to do to Impact the World: put an end to bullying
Favorite Song: "Stomping Grounds" by JJ Lawhorn
Favorite Quote: "Don't be afraid to stand for what you believe in, even if it means standing alone"

Here are some more images of him on our site, and click here to see a short video from the session. Kyle, you have a great opportunity to pursue your dreams. Stay focused, and persevere, and you'll find contentment and satisfaction in life.

Miss Tommi-Lynn....

is a senior at Churchill HS. She came out last year with one of her friends for her senior portraits and remembered us when it came time for her own. Tommi-Lynn is a bubbly, talkative, positive, happy, and creative, young lady. She doesn't know what she wants to study in college, but she has plans to attend Texas State in the Fall. Tommi-Lynn is a multi-talented individual. She plays the violin (winning awards) and is very articulate. We share the common bond of being quick-witted (comebacks come easy for us). There were many things I'll remember about the session, but hands down it has to be going down to the creek with her violin. The images turned out great, and hopefully, she likes 'em as much as we do. More about her:

After graduation: Attending Texas State University
A Dinner Guest of her choice: My Aunt Joan-Kay, to meet her and to experience what a wonderful woman she was
One Wish: to live a fulfilling, happy life with the ones I love
One thing to do to Impact the World: to positively change just one person's life would impact the world greatly
Favorite Song: "The Girl" by City and Colour
Favorite Quote: "Never love anybody who treats you like you're ordinary"

Here are some more images of her on our site, and click here to see a short video from the session. Tommi-Lynn, you are a breath of fresh air. Your diligence and determination will get you far in life. It's so great to see someone who has handled adversity and come out on top. The sky is the limit for you, and along with your smile, we have no doubts that you'll make it in this life. You are a joy to be around....