Photography by Pati

New Blog

2009-08-23T09:36:00.001-07:00

After much consideration...

I have designed a new blog. You can click this link to go there:

Pati Pakulis Photograpy ~ New Blog

This process has actually been very therapeutic for me. Ever since I launched my photography business, I have been trying to develop a sense of who I am as a photographer - my style - a logo - a brand. Well, hopefully I've achieved that... I longed for larger photos and a cleaner look.

And the good news is that all of my content from this blog has been imported to my new blog - that was important to me!

Plus, I couldn't think of a better way to finish this blog than with a photo of my family - and sharing our most recent news with you. I guess it just felt like the right time for me.

So I'd be honored if you take a trip to my new blog - Pati Pakulis Photography ~ New Blog
and please bookmark it!

That's where I live now - I hope you'll continue to join me there!

many blessings always,

From the heart....

2009-08-16T22:56:00.000-07:00

I wanted to take a moment to thank my wonderful friend Melissa Jill for the family photos she recently took. I cherish her friendship and her photography is a truly a gift the Lord has given her to share with the world!

XOXO Melissa!!

To see the entire post go to: Pakulis Family Photos

Well... as you now know, life has been back into high gear a bit! It's been a very sort of surreal time for us. I continue to try stay focused on my family, my photography and certainly my faith. It is truly what sustains me.

I will simply say this... that even with our new situation, I continue to believe. Through this entire journey, I've asked many times, has the plan changed Lord? The answer that I always seem to get is that I am to continue to beLIeVE. So unless I hear otherwise...that's what I do.

I beLIeVE!

Time to share......

2009-08-13T20:14:00.000-07:00

My amazing photographer friend Melissa Jill has just posted photos of our family.

http://www.melissajill.net/

She has also shared about our situation. I have kept quiet about this... waiting for the right time. I must say it was nice to just have the news come out without hav...ing to explain it all. Honestly, I'm a bit fatigued in that department.

I am so grateful for her request for prayers for my husband. Will you join us in praying for healing for Peter? We continue to hope & beLIeVE. xoxo

I love recieving mail......

2009-08-13T07:17:00.000-07:00

Especially when it's announcement or wedding invitations that use photos I have taken! it's SO much fun!

So here are 2 wedding invitations I recently recieved:

Moses and Erica...

These 2 love birds.. or song birds have recently released a cd.. and the photo is from the studio shots I did for the cd cover... here's the link for that blogpost:

http://patipakulis.blogspot.com/search/label/commercial

Big Day is Sept 26th - in Yakama, Washington!

And.... Tyler and Krista- I did theri engagement photos a few months ago.
Here's their blogpost link:

http://href=%22http//patipakulis.blogspot.com/search/label/engagement%20session%22%3E%3C/a%3E>

Their big day is Sept 10th! Can wait!

Congrats to both of you!

Lots of New.....

2009-08-10T22:47:00.000-07:00

New clothes - check
New Backpacks - check
New school - Check for Julia, check for Colin
It's a new year! First day of school.

And this year I have a high schooler! It's so hard to believe. Colin - my boy. My baby boy... is now in high school.
And Julia... she's now starting junior high.. or should I say "middle school" That's the correct term these days.
And little Lissy... my 4th grader, well this this is the first time she is in any school with out a big brother or sister there with her.

So there is lots of new! New tears too... new sighs... and definately new prayers~
But NEW is good. It's how life goes. So today I celebrate the NEW with my children!
I love you Colin, Julia & Alissa

Introducing......

2009-08-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

My New Logo:

I'm never looking back! This is IT!!

I wanted something elegant, classic and clean. I LOVE the flourish -- AND it has a very personal and special meaning to me...symbolically! That I keep to myself.. sorry!

So get ready to start seeing more of this logo....

Ta Daaaa..... Peter & Pati

2009-08-06T22:58:00.000-07:00

I recently had my wedding photos scanned! I never purchased a wedding album when Peter and I were first married. So I decided to get one now. Especially because I am in this business and have access to some beautful wedding albums. It's been fun to look back at these!

Here's my one of my favorite shots. Overall, my wedding was very posed and the photographer was very traditional.. but this photo was a pretty spontaneous moment for us!

Almost 19 years ago we had no idea where we were heading, the beautiful children we would have, and the challenges we would face. We simply made a vow, and said, "I do."

Somehow, God has given us the grace to keep that vow and the strength to continue to do so!
It has not always been easy - but it has always been worth it!

Life is hard sometimes.... BUT I honestly believe that Life is good!

I love this man and I am grateful for my life!

Sisters~

2009-08-03T04:48:00.000-07:00

I have a best friend named Janet whom I have known my entire life. She and I grew up together and have been friends for as long as I can remember.
Recently, during a trip back home to California - I had the chance of photographing her two daughters Tori & Hailey.

We certainly had some fun!

Tori is the oldest. She is really involved with the childrens ministry at her church. She sings in the praise band and works at the Happiest Place on Earth - yep... Disneyland!

Hailey is in high school. It's always wild for me when I see her because she looks like her mom SO much. (sorry Hailey... but that IS a compliment!)
She's the artsy one... she very creative and easy going.

They goofed off a bit - and I love some of the shots I was able to get

Thank you so much Ladies! I love you Both
xoxo
pati

CD Release Concert - Moses Lugemye

2009-07-31T14:21:00.000-07:00

Here's another plug for my friend Moses Lugemye. He will be promoting his recent CD release, Our God, with a concert at The Springs Church in Chandler.

Concert date:Friday August 21st
Time: 7pm
Location: The Springs Church: http://www.thespringschurch.net/thespringschurch/ds/index.htm

For More Information go to: http://moseslugemye.com/Site/Home.html

His CD is featured below. I provided the photography for this project. It was so much fun the see the final CD!!

Check out this video:

A big hug....

2009-07-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

For all of you who check my blog regularly! I've gotta say, that this whole process was foreign to me a year ago... and I am just thankful that you decide to check in on me and see the work I love to do.

So Thank you!!

Also- this comes with a bit of an apology. For the past several months, I've really been doing "just enough" to get my blog posts in!

The truth is that I have been pretty exhausted... in general. After my husband's surgery in February... I think I sort of collapsed a bit inside. You gear up and fight and fight... and cancer is not an easy battle. I know I just needed to get some air!

So my posts have been full of photos... but not filled with much heart as far as my writing goes. There's much more I could say.. but I have just managed to blog the very basics. Maybe you're actually happy about that! Could be. I do realize that a blog can be rather cathartic - in general.

But inside, I did JUST what I needed to do. Do the minimum. Rest a bit.

There is much going on in my life right now.. and again, I am feeling that exhaustion that comes from seasons in life that test you beyond what you're capable of.

That brings me to my photo... not only is it a hug...
But really, it is what I do when the going gets tough!

I am a worship leader. I have been for many years! I sing, I play guitar and I lift my hands up high - to the God of this Universe... is truly the best way I know to do life. It is how I am strengthened and it is how I sometimes survive!
It is truly a part of who I am and what I do.

So this photo caught my attention. And I decided to share it with you!

Thank YOU ALL for contining to come and visit!! I am thankful!

Logo Inspiration - Name Change Coming...

2009-07-25T09:52:00.000-07:00

From the moment I began this business... the one thing that have haunted me is my quest for a logo. Searcing for my indentity in a design that can define me.
I will say - that I like my current logo best at this moment...
BUT.... it needs to change.

I will soon be Pati Pakulis Photography... for a few reasons.

First and formost being is that there is another photographer using photographybypati.com as their domain name.

I can't have this type of confusion.

When I first researched that domain name-- I knew it was taken... but it was not being used at the time. Now there is an actualy website up and running.

The most simple and logical thing for me hten... is to simply sing my work.. and my photographs with my full name: Pati Pakulis
So I will be working on a final logo - to refelct this change.

Here is some of my design inspiration - a direction in which I am heading. And I must get there once and for all!!

Rodriguez Family - Sneek Peek

2009-07-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

How precious are these little angels!!
More to come........

This is the 2nd rainbow I've seen

2009-07-21T12:37:00.000-07:00

They are always a gift to me. They remind me of God's faithfulness and they always make me smile!

My friend Cassie sent me a text - so I walked out my front door and there it was.

Someday I'll share more about this... but for now.. I hope you enjoy!

Congratulations Jessica & Jonathan!!

2009-07-18T09:39:00.000-07:00

Jessica & Jonathan ~ Sneek Peek

2009-07-16T15:11:00.000-07:00

Laguna Beach | California | July 12, 2009

Back home...

2009-07-14T23:22:00.000-07:00

A Wedding... and a day on the beach with family!
Had a good trip to California!

LOTS of work to get done. LOTS of images to process!

COUSINS - Huntington Beach ~ California

Baby ZoeJane ~ Part 2

2009-07-10T08:32:00.000-07:00

Just a few more photos of ZoeJane! These were so much fun! And don't worry...mom was near ZoeJane... no chance of her falling!

Baby Z - Just a Sneek Peek

2009-07-05T22:08:00.000-07:00

Oh my!

Last week

2009-07-04T12:57:00.000-07:00

I was having lunch with a friend of mine, Melissa Jill. http://www.melissajill.com/

She is one of my all-time favorite photographers! Truly gifted and talented. She has had a large impact on me as a new photographer and our friendship has been a gift.

During lunch I was sharing with her how last year... when I asked God to show me a rainbow.. regarding my husband's cancer, he showed me 3.

Melissa had taken a photo of the most amazing rainbow I've ever seen photographed while she was in Ireland... and her rainbow was the 3rd I'd seen in a row. http://www.melissajill.net/index.cfm?m=8&y=2008&StartRow=11

After lunch with Melissa, later that afternoon I went to do a family shoot at Tempe Town Lakes. As I was photographing, I looked up and saw this~

It was a gift I believe. A reminder for me of all that God has done...AND will continue to do!

I will say this.... I just have a feeling I will see 2 more in the sky!

Happy 4th of July! Celebrate! Enjoy family! Count your blessings~

Meet Moses Lugemye...

2009-06-30T16:19:00.000-07:00

He is the worship Pastor at The Springs Church in Chandler.. http://www.desertsprings.net/
Somehow, I get to assist in the music ministry there... so I work with Moses.

A while back he asked me to take some studio shots for his upcoming music CD... and news has it that his CD, has just been released.

So check it out: http://www.moseslugemye.com/

Congratulations to you Moses on your new cd - Our God

Also, the beautiful woman in the photos is Erica Morales. A very gifted vocalist AND..... now Moses fiance!! What a lucky guy!

Enjoy the photos!

Buy the CD!!

Meet the Kupis Family!

2009-06-24T07:55:00.000-07:00

Jeff & Julia -- Kai and Kade! Neighbors and friends!
We had a family lifestyle session just a few weeks ago--

The boys are just beautiful!! And well... you can see where that comes from!

Julia is an amazing hairstylist at Sachi Salon and Spa in Scottsdale. I highly reccomend her!!

Both Julia (JJ) and Jeff had mentioned to me that they like black and white photos.. and I just love our results!

Enjoy!

This is one of my favorite shots!!

Thank you Jeff & Julia - Kai and Kade! It was an honor!

Family Kupis-- Sneek Peek!

2009-06-22T21:42:00.000-07:00

Krista & Tyler - Engagement Session

2009-06-17T21:57:00.000-07:00

Tyler and Krista's engegement session was an adventure!

Right as we go to our location, it began to rain!!

At one point, Tyler and Krista just decided to go ahead and get wet... and have some fun doing it! Now THAT's true love wouldn't you say???

Tyler & Krista Sneek Peek...

2009-06-16T13:28:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Hotel California...

2009-06-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

"THE" Hotel California that was the inspiration for the famous Eagles song! It is located in Todos Santos Mexico!

http://http://www.todossantos-baja.com

I had a chance to take some daytime and evening shots.

Casa Bentley ... more pics~

2009-06-08T17:19:00.000-07:00

Casa Bentley in Todos Santos Mexico! My children had a wonderful time here!

It is a peaceful and calm boutique hotel built by the hands of esteemed Professor Robert Bentley, a retired geology professor with a long history of teaching about rocks and gems from Baja California to Washington State. He was our gracious host... along with his assistant Beatrice and of course... the Casa Bentley dogs!

It is amazing to see the small paradise he has created here! Enjoy!

This was the entrance to our room:

Our patio just outside our room:

Lissy going for a swim~

Some details--

Our Hosts, Professor Bentley & Beatrice

Our other Hosts ;-) Heidi

Trying to remember???

Juaque

http://www.casabentleybaja.com/

Casa Bentley

2009-06-06T10:02:00.000-07:00

Our first stop in Mexico was at the amazing Casa Bantley in Todos Santos ~ Baja, Mexico...

http://casabentleybaja.com/

Looks so inviting right?

More photos and info to come~

Dancing with the Dolphins!

2009-06-05T15:45:00.000-07:00

Last year my kids were told by their Uncle Jim and Aunt Lorraine that they would get to swim with dolphins this summer!

Well, this past week--- that is indeed what they did! We spent the week in Mexico with Uncle Jim and Aunt Lorraine having the time of our lives!

It was truly amazing!! I wanted to share some more dolphin photos with you. These were taken by Cabo Dolphin Co.

Enjoy!

Meet Frieda...

2009-06-04T22:07:00.000-07:00

One of many amazing moments on our vacation! I just had to share this one quick photo with you tonight.

I'll have plenty more over the next week~

Thank you Uncle Jim and Aunt Lorraine!!

Mexico...

2009-06-03T05:13:00.000-07:00

Cabo has been amazing! We are heading home tomarrow. Pictures to come soon!!

Some R & R

2009-05-30T07:24:00.000-07:00

We are Cabo-bound! Yep... Mexico again. My amazing brother and sister in law are taking the kids and I on a little vacation!

So excited to rest and relax... kind of like my dog Marley does on a daily basis!

I hope to be able to blog while I'm there... share some photos with you all!

Peter is not quite up for the trip.. plus he loves U.S. soil.

Soulographer

2009-05-29T07:51:00.000-07:00

This was a workshop I attended back in the fall. I've never been able to catch up enough on my workflow to finish editing all the phtoos. Well... I'm caught up-- Finally!!

So here are some images from that workshop. This totally made me miss photographing children!

Just a little Family Holiday Fun!

2009-05-27T14:54:00.000-07:00

This was a great way to spend the afternoon!

Following a dream....One Year Later

2009-05-25T02:53:00.000-07:00

This month is a special month for me as a photographer. It was one year ago that I decided to make turn my love for photography into a career.

I certainly didn't come up with this idea on my own... I truly believe that I was sort of called into it.

My husband had just been healed of cancer in April and we were sorta taking a breath. I hadn't been taking many photos, but I had pulled out my camera to photograph Easter Sunday at my church. They were doing a play and wanted some photos taken.

It was after this play that I said a little prayer. Basically I asked, How could you use photography in my life Lord?.. I just love it."

Well, honestly, a little over a week later I had a High School Senior named Monique come and ask me to do her Senior Portraits.

I remember telling her hesitantly, "Well, ok." I wanted to do them quickly, making sure that if I screwed them up, she would have time to go to a REAL photographer.

I purchased a 50mm lens... said a prayer and photographed Monique.

When I went to view her images... as I scrolled through the photos... something happened inside. I knew at that moment... I can do this! I HAVE to do this!

I had always know the joy of capturing images of my children, but I never knew I could feel that joy in cpaturing images of others! I immediately knew that a dream was born in my heart that day!

So here I am one year later..... So much has taken place.

God has truly used photography in my life in a way I would have never imagined! It has helped provide for my family, as my husband had to yet face cancer for a 2nd time.

It intrigues me, consumes me, challenges me and fulfills me on so many levels. I am simply beyond blessed to be in this profession! And I thank God each day for it. I pray before each shoot,

"Lord help me to see what you want me to see
Show me the light that you want me to capture
Allow me to bless this person/family
with images that will capture who they are and the beauty of their life"

photo taken by my photographer friend Annie Gerber! http://www.anniegerberphotography.com/

Adrienne ~ Senior Style

2009-05-22T18:06:00.000-07:00

My last Senior of the season.... at this moment anyway! Meet Miss Adrienne! Beautiful inside and out!

This photo... I will say, has been one of my favorites so far! There's just something about her expression that keeps me wondering, "What was she really thinking that moment! Anyway... Enjoy!

Adrienne is also a cheerleader... surprise surprise!

She LOVES her "EAGLES JACKET"

Sneek Peek ~ Adrienne Senior Style!

2009-05-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

The day my life changed.... forever!

2009-05-19T10:28:00.000-07:00

Was the day my son, Colin Taylor Pakulis, was born! Truly one of the greatest days of my life!

Happy Birthday Colin!! He's now.... 14 years old!

I love mail...

2009-05-18T10:42:00.000-07:00

In the past two weeks, I have recieved some goodies that I would love to share with you! ANNOUNCEMENTS!

It has been such a great feeling to open my mail and see a Graduation or Engagement announcement that is from one of my clients. It puts a smile on my face immediately! I recieved quite a few lately and I LOVE IT!

Thank you for including me!!

Lauren Senior Style!

2009-05-14T07:26:00.000-07:00

This was a fun shoot! I actually got to photograph Lauren's pet Rat. He was so sweet and I do love the photos I captured of the two of them!

A great experience!

Lauren is such a sweetheart! She's alot of fun to photograph--and yes I detected a bit of some modeling potential! She was so eager to make her photos shine~~

Thank you Lauren for the amazing opportunity to capture on of the most important seasons in your life!!

xoxo-pati

Mother's Day... a family affair!

2009-05-13T23:29:00.000-07:00

Most of my Mother's day was spent differently this year. I had the opportunity to provide photography for The Hyatt Regency Spa and Resort in Scottsdale.

I was asked to take family photos of the guests who were enjoying brunch at the Hyatt.

My children and good friend Cassie joined me to help make this happen!

Colin was my right hand man! He would run the photos through quick edits and then print them for the families.

Lissy helped me set up and worked on artisically dispalying my "skinny mini" cards. She was my model too! Helped me when I needed to check lighting...etc.

And I even managed to get a shot with my loves... But my Julia was missing. She stayed home with her Daddy!

After the photo session, we were able to have brunch here - and THAT was amazing!!
It was a great Mother's Day!!

Lauren... Senior Style Sneek Peek

2009-05-13T07:42:00.000-07:00

My Most Cherished!

2009-05-11T06:57:00.000-07:00

As my children were growing up I was a film shooter... digital was just really getting off the ground and I get on board that train until 2 years ago.

My favorite medium was taking black and white photos of my kids! It was always an exciting day to go pick up a roll of C-41 that had just been developed! I remember that joy of that process. Opening the envelope and my heart racing.. wondering what I would see. What had I captured...exactly.

For Mother's Day-- I am indulging a bit and sharing some of my most treasures images!!

These fill my heart with joy everytime I look at them!

They are a Mother's Joy! My Most Cherished of All!

Heather & Joel!

2009-05-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

This post will be ongoing throughout the day... as I upload and post more pics of Joel and Heather's delight Wedding Day!!

Friends... a true blessing from God

2009-05-05T23:25:00.000-07:00

I am deeply blessed!! My amazing friends Jill, Densie & Angie surprised me with this trip to Mexico. After walking with my husband through cancer for the last 18 months... they wanted me to have a rest...

After driving through some deep backroads... we pulled into this place-- and I have to say that my jaw drooped.. literally! I could not believe this home.. tucked away in an ocean cove!

It truly is nothing short of paradise.

My mornings were filled with a sunrises over the ocean-- and I heard the constant sound of waves! I slept in... ate like a queen and yes... got a funky sunburn - I'm such a sunwimp!

Thank you so much Jill - Denise and Angie-----this trip was absolutely amazing and perfect!!!
I will never forget it! I love each of you so much!!

I also had a chance to meet Lorenza--- another blessing and person I can now call friend! She was a wonderful host-- The amazing home we stayed in belongs to her family. It is called Casa Buque!

It is available for rent... and truly an ocean getaway that you will never forget.

Here is the link and many more photos for Casa Buque - in Sayulita Mexico!

http://www.sayulitalife.com/buque

I hope with all my heart.....to come back here someday!!!

Sayulita...

2009-05-01T23:54:00.000-07:00

a tiny little town on the ocean in Mexico.

Back Home!!

2009-05-01T22:25:00.000-07:00

So... Mexico has not been the most popular place recently... but it was paradise for me and my wonderful friends even throughout this past week's swine flu scare.

My friends Jill, Denise and Angie took me to the amazing little town of Sayulita, Mexico-- where we stayed with the greatest Mexican girl in the world... Lorenza!

This was our private little beach! It was surreal!

This was the view I had each day of the morning sunrise as seen from my balcony!

It was truly paradise and I had the time of my life with my friends!

Jill, Lorenza, Angie, Denise, Pati

More photos to come!!

Sneek Peek ~ Joel & Heather!!

2009-04-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

Congratulations!

Oh Mexico ....

2009-04-26T23:51:00.000-07:00

I never really been so I dont really know
Oh, mexico
I guess Ill have to go

James Taylor

Well, that's where I'm off too! With some amazing friends of mine-- Jill, Denise & Angie! I am so excited. And like the song says... I've never really been, well that would be me!

We leave tomarrow morning! Gone for 5 days! We'll be about 30 miles away from Puerto Vallarta! Oh my!

Ole!!

Starlight ... Starbright

2009-04-23T20:43:00.000-07:00

the first star I see tonight

I wish I may.. I wish I might

have the wish I wish tonight!

I wish for the lens that took these photos!!!!!

This is Marley our dog... just relaxing on a Saturday afternoon! he's such a good dog!

With the exception of a little sharpening... these images are straight out of the camera~

The lens I used is an AMAZING lens!! It is the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor ED-IF Lens with Hood - Black Finish

It ONLY retails for approximately $1950.00

I call it "the magic lens!" Just looking through it feels like magic to me!

And the photos it takes seem magical!!

Someday!!!

This is just a personal shout out....

2009-04-23T00:09:00.000-07:00

to my sister Ellie~ I just wanted to tell you that I love you! You are the best!

It was her birthday recently.. and I still haven't sent her card (I'm horrible)

We don't have many photos together... so here's one for you babe!!

I love you!

P.S..... I HOPE you're checking my blog ;-)

More Genica.....the All American Girl!

2009-04-20T22:45:00.000-07:00

So you saw the glamour...

Now you see the girl next door. She's like America's sweetheart! That wholesome smile and gorgeous head of hair!

I just couldn't leave these photos out of the mix!

Thank you so very much Genica... for the honor!

Genica - Senior Style

2009-04-18T06:57:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to photograph Genica... a beautiful High School Senior!!
Her prom dress shots were so fun!! She definately looks like a model.

Genica has the sweetest heart.. and was just a joy to work with!!

Senior Style Portraits

2009-04-16T09:41:00.000-07:00

Sneek Peek: Genica!!

Family Portraits - motorcycle style

2009-04-14T19:10:00.000-07:00

I love my job!!! Can you see why?

This was such a fun shoot! Great family - great bike - great wall ( I love brick--and the arches are awesome too) Great light. OK... so this shoot was just great all the way around.

Joe and Joanie are celebrating their 25 year anniversary!! Doing it in style!

Sneek Peek - Family Portrait Session... a la motorcycle!

2009-04-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

My friend Joe has a pretty cool motorcycle. I had a chance to photograph Joe with his wife and daughter... and the bike.

They are celebrating their 25 year anniverary--- so we had some fun!

Full blog post to come!

Baby on board.....

2009-04-09T21:29:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my first maternity shoot!

Meet Janae! She is pregnant with her first child. Janae is one of the most talented people I know. She has written some of the most amazing plays and is on staff at the church I attend, http://www.desertsprings.net/

Our shoot was done in a natural window lighting enviroment!

Janae had this beautiful dress that captured such a sense of classic elegance. I loved it!!

Enjoy!

Thank you Janae-- You are such a BEAUTIFUL mama~

pati

Cornish Clan ~

2009-04-08T16:24:00.000-07:00

This is my friend Kelly-- and her beautiful family! She and Scott are celebrating their wedding anniversary and decided to have family portraits taken for their gift!

Kelly and I go way back. Our children have gone to school together since pre-school.

She has had a thriving online business for years! She is an accomplished seemstress and sews custom shopping cart covers for babies... and a host of other items as well! My children STILL have the baby blanket/pillow that she made!! She was always an inspiration to me.

So... for moms with little babies. She's in the top 10 for Google--- so check it out her website: http://www.handmade4baby.com/

They take some mean photos too!! BEAUTIFUL!!

More Shelby ~~~ Senior Style.....

2009-04-06T10:54:00.000-07:00

Just a few more photos from my Cinderella girl... only without her gown!

Cinderella... Senior Style

2009-04-02T21:01:00.000-07:00

This shoot was SO... SO much fun! My beautiful Senior Shelby really was nothing short of Cinderella. And some of the backdrops were so cool!

Her prom dress was gorgeous. And the day had some amazing wind that was Perfect at times.

I had a blast editing these photos... and I LOVED working with Shelby. She is stunning, smart and just a complete sweetheart!!

Shelby had other outfits as well... but I'll post those separately! Had to start with the dress photos.

Enjoy !!

This image below is my favorite shot... there is just something that intrigues me here.

Shelby... Senior Style

2009-04-02T14:44:00.001-07:00

Enjoy---- please turn off music below before starting this video.

A Special Day~

2009-04-01T09:52:00.001-07:00

I know that today is April Fools Day... so here you go. I'm pregnant!!!
APRIL FOOLS ( I wish) Anyway, but this day has more significance to our family!

One year ago... my husband was healed of his 1st Cancer-- Liposarcoma.
It is a day that I will NEVER forget.

I sat at Cedar Sinai in LA-- waiting after a 4 hour surgery... to hear those wonderful words "clean margins!" I can't describe the emotion that you feel --- it's really something beyond words. All I can say is the emotion of that day is seared into my heart... like no other.

SO................ today the Pakulis Family Celebrates the first victory over Cancer... and we rejoice in God's miracles!

I have put together this video... mostly to honor our God who is so Faithful and to remember HIS great works in our lives!

I hope you are blessed!

Pati

(you may want to go below and turn off the music - before starting video)

Sneek Peek: Shelby ~ Senior Style

2009-03-31T08:39:00.000-07:00

Senior + Prom Dress = STUNNING~

But don't let Shelby fool you... Check back for her Cinderella gone urban grunge images!!

THIS was FUN!! They're almost totally ready Shelby!
xoxo - pati

Disney Performance

2009-03-29T21:53:00.000-07:00

Colin's performance at Disneyland was AWESOME! The band did an amazing job! And it was just fun to see Colin perform at the Happiest Place on Earth---what a treat!

Colin's fan club:

Dad, Julia, Tia Ellie, Emily, Colin, Tori and Alissa! He gots lots of cheers!

Proud Mom and Dad!!

GREAT JOB BUD!! We love you!

Off to Disneyland

2009-03-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

My son Colin is a drummer and plays percussion for the junior high band. He gets to perform at the "happiest place on earth" tommarow!

Carnation Stage - Disneyland!!!

Go Colin!

Smyers Family photos!

2009-03-24T22:53:00.000-07:00

I loved photographing the Smyers! They were so much fun!

The kids are just gorgeous! And LOVED my camera!! OK-- maybe they didn't LOVE it-- but they sure were gamers for me!!

The ladies were fun!! Was looking for some nice backlighting for them!

This is probably one of my faves!

Beautiful Family!!

You guys are SO awesome! Thank you for the amazing privledge to capture the beauty of your family!!

LOVE - Pati

I made the Shuttle Bus!

2009-03-23T22:30:00.000-07:00

This is a hoot!

I did some commercial photography for my children's orthodontist-- Dr Ken Danyluk @ Team Orthodontics. http://www.teamorthodontics.com

Well, he used a couple of the photos for his "shuttle bus!" He offers rides for kids to and from school.

I thought this was SO cool! I made the shuttle bus!! Now I have to have my kids picked up in the shuttle sometime!

Thanks Dr. D--- I love it!!

blog love

2009-03-22T13:27:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't blogged as often as I'd like. I have a family shoot coming asap!! So check back tonight!

Intrigue

2009-03-18T23:59:00.000-07:00

So I am always facinated with light of course. I have to be... but it really does intrigue me!

This past weekend, at the end of a shoot I was walking over to my car. I stopped dead in my tracks when I came upon the evening light on the brick sidewalk.

It was stunning-- so I sat for a bit and just soaked it in. Of course I tried to capture a portion of the magic.

Michelle - Senior Style DVD

2009-03-17T14:30:00.001-07:00

check out Michelle's DVD --- Remember to scroll down to the bottom of my blog to turn off the music!

Enjoy!

Michelle --- Senior Style!

2009-03-16T23:13:00.000-07:00

Michelle is such a sweetheart! I had so much fun photographing her. Of course with a pair eyes like that... what photographer wouldn't jump at the chance to photograph her!

OK... so I just HAD to get up close!

This is one of my favorites! I just love the light hitting her face.

Another perspective of her those baby blues! Can I get of those lashes please?

Michelle,

What an honor! Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to capture your Senior Portraits!
I am so blessed!
xoxo--Pati

Sneek Peek: The Smyres Family

2009-03-14T14:22:00.000-07:00

more to come....

John Senior Style!!

2009-03-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

This was an amazing Senior Shoot... so much fun!
John is a photographer's dream!! He just has that "look"

He plays base, guitar, cello.... this kid is SO talented. I get to play with him occasionally at church--- he and his family are all awesome musicians!

So I knew that instruments in his Senior photos were a must!!

O.k..... this is my favorite smile!

We also had quite another prop..... this green BMW. Nothing but pure style for John.

This is probably my favorite shot!!

This was fun. I saw the train coming and told John to grab his base....
Had to get this QUICK!

Revolution

2009-03-10T23:16:00.001-07:00

Product Alert --- Metal Style!

2009-03-10T08:51:00.000-07:00

Attention High School Seniors-- here are some new products that are sure to impress!

Introducing Metal Style! Photo products that are made from metal--check it out:

Metal Prints:

These come in the following sizes:

4 x 6
8 x 8
8 x 10
12 x 12

Liscense Plates - This is cool!

Dog Tags;

Pricing is available on my Senior website at http://www.patipakulis.com/

Remaining Senior Style sessions available for March are the following dates:

March 18th - 4pm
March 19th - 4pm
March 20th - 4pm

New Senior Website

2009-03-07T20:56:00.000-08:00

Just wanted you to take a peek -- lots of fun! http://patipakulis.com

Celebrating Life with Baby JJ

2009-03-05T06:27:00.000-08:00

Meet my beautiful nephew JJ! The newest addition to my family. Named after his daddy Jonathan, my brother, He is Jonathan Junior, hence... "JJ"

As we celebrate the health and healing of my husband's cancer, I couldn't think of better photos to post! I have waited to introduce this Little Light of Life to you all!! These photos were taken on my trip to California back in January.

This is one of my favorite shots--- I love the expression and it certainly makes me wonder, "what is he thinking about?"

This IS my favorite shot. I just LOVE his tiny baby foot in his daddy's hand!

JJ is just such a happy and easygoing little guy! He is so content!
I haven't has a chance to photograph any babies... so this was just such an honor for me!! I'm happy that my nephew JJ was the first!!

We love you baby JJ!!

"...do not fear, just believe" - Mark 5:36

2009-03-03T20:35:00.000-08:00

After 18 months ~ 2 rare forms of cancer ~ 5 surgeries, radiation.. twice ~ chemo therapy ~countless prayers ~ faith ~ rainbows ~ clouds and fire~ medical expertise ~ the faithfulness of God ~ and a request to BeLIeVE..........

My husband Peter is now CANCER FREE!!

So we gathered together tonite. Shared a beautiful meal from a wonderful servant named Kate.. and we had communion. Then we lit this menorah.

I purchased this when Peter was healed of the first cancer... liposarcoma on April 1st, 2008. I really wanted something special that would help our family to always remember and celebrate the day that God healed Peter. This menorah from the Cedar Sinai hospital seemed perfect for some reason. After all, Cedar Sinai is a Jewish hospital.

Little did I know then that our journey was not at all over.

My desire was that this menorah would be used every April 1st. We would light the candles and simply remember and honor what God did for Peter. A new family tradition was birthed.

However tonight--- it was pulled early.

After today... we know that our family will now light our candles TWICE a year.... to honor the God that has so faithfully answered our prayers and the prayers of so many others.

Tonight, we share our light with you---- God has healed Peter once again. He used competent doctors to help destroy cancer.

And all we can say is that God IS Faithful..... always.

From the deepest part of our soul, we THANK YOU ALL

forever grateful,
Pati

Resting In California

2009-03-01T06:57:00.000-08:00

Peter & I have been at my parents home all week.. resting with my husband. He is doing very well! We meet with his surgeon tomorrow for a follow up visit... then we head back home to Arizona. We hope they have a final pathology report for us..... we know that things look very good.

The surgeon did say that Peter may want to consider one more round of chemotherapy as sort of a final precaution. So that will most likely take place in the next week or so.

As much as we miss our children, it has been so good to just rest this week... without the distractions of our usual daily life.

I did want to share this photo earlier in the week... but I had forgotten my memory card reader back in Arizona.

This framed photo was on Peter's floor while he was staying at Cedar Sinai. I saw it the first time I was heading to Peter's hospital room.

I has to take this photo SO quickly... I Los Angeles, if you have anything that looks like a decent camera at Cedar Sinai, they think your the paparazzi..... seriously! I learned this the hard way.

So yes.... I did SNEEK this photo... I confess! But I just had to have it. What I loved the most was that the rainbow also had a picture of a heart next to it.

And all I can tell you is that when I saw this... I knew it was God's way of not only showing me another rainbow....but He was also telling me that how much He loves us!

Fulfilling a promise ... with great love!

We love you all!

Pati

Back to Cedar Sinai

2009-02-23T12:06:00.000-08:00

April 1st--- 2008 Cedar Sinai --My husband was healed from Cancer. Liposarcoma to be exact.

After radiation and 3 surgeries, we heard the words "Cancer free"

I will NEVER in my life... forget that day.

July of 2008 Peter was diagnosed with cancer again---- this time it was a totally different type of cancer--- small cell neuro-endocrine carcinoma.....and it was aggressive. Extremely---- as his oncologist would say, it was "extraordinarily rare."

So---after a surgery, a large biopsy, radiation again, and some very aggressive chemo---

Here I am again... back at Cedar Sinai... waiting.

I know where things are here.... and I began the day in the chapel. This place always feels SO safe to me.

Peter has been amazing---- he's worked as much as he possibly could throughout both cancers. He has endured so much physically... yet he would simply say that it's mostly been an inconvenience.
He never complains---

He's had enduring faith in the God that he knows to be faithful.

And to me.... he has never been more beautiful.

I just wanted to take a moment to honor my husband today----

For fighting the fight... for walking through the valley of the shadow of death-- literally......with faith and dignity.

God has sustained Peter and I from the moment this began. He is our hope and our strength--always.

I sit here at Cedars with a quiet hope and faith---that I will hear those words again.....Cancer free.

I beLIeVe

Courage & Beauty

2009-02-19T13:00:00.000-08:00

I recent met LouAnn.

She is facing cancer... for the 2nd time.

She asked me if I would take photos of her.... it was my honor!

What Cancer Cannot Do

It cannot cripple love
It cannot dissolve faith
It cannot destroy peace
It cannot kill friendship
It cannot suppress memories
It cannot silence courage
It cannot invade the soul
It cannot steal eternal life
It cannot conquer the spirit

LouAnn-- my thoughts and prayers are with you!

humbly--pati

One more lap.....

2009-02-15T22:27:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,

Thank you for your continued prayers and support for the Pakulis family. As you know, Peter finished chemo over a month ago. Well, we wanted to share some great news we received today.

The most recent PET scan found an 85% reduction in the tumor activity of the sinus!!

We are so thankful for this!! The goal from the beginning was to decrease the tumor size and activity prior to surgery. So this has been accomplished!

Surgery is scheduled for next Monday, February 23rd. It will be in California at Cedar Sinai once again. The surgery is still very involved… so your continued prayers are so deeply appreciated.

It feels like the final leg of a long race… and though there is still a major surgery on the table—healing feels closer than ever.

Again, we thank you for all of your wonderful love & support. For your longevity in continuing to pray for our needs throughout. For your amazing generosity and giving that has helped sustain our family. God has used your love and prayers to carry us through. He has been SO faithful every step of the way.

The scripture below is from Peter--- it has been such a strength to him during this battle!

“Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.”
Psalm 50:15

Bless you all---

Love,

Pati Pakulis

Senior Style...

2009-02-14T09:56:00.000-08:00

Meet the Adorable Kristen Alexander..... she's such a sweetheart! Our recent Senior Style shoot was a blast.... and I love the images that were captured of her.

She's down to earth, has a great sense of humor and borders between adorable and downright elegant!

This is one of my favorites. I love those baby blues!

I love the confidence I see in Kristen in this photo. I know that whatever she pursues in this life, that she will be a success.

And I love the sweetness I see in the photo.... I know she has a big heart!

Thank you Kristen--- truly---- for the wonderful honor to take your senior photos...

xoxo

pati

Senior Style : Kristen

2009-02-12T20:45:00.001-08:00

Please turn off music below before beginning slideshow

ENJOY!

Love ~ Heather and Joel Style

2009-02-11T14:28:00.001-08:00

My First Engagement Shoot

2009-02-08T19:33:00.000-08:00

So I admit, I was a bit nervous for this shoot. I have never done an engagement shoot before.

Meet Joel and Heather-- Beautiful couple!! They wanted a location with flowers and a feel of Spring. So I must thank my photographer friend Patrick Tipton for the location suggestion--- It was perfect!!

This was great fun---- and I loved working with Heather and Joel who are getting married in April!!

Thanks so much you two----Enjoy!

Meet My Niece..... Baby Hailey!

2009-02-04T11:14:00.000-08:00

I was recently visiting my family in California-- so I had the opportunity to take some photos of my loved ones.

Hailey is my adorable niece that my kids just go wild for--they ADORE her. She has the most beautiful head of hair--full of curly locks.

Well, I was just messing around with some window lighting--taking her photo.

After we left California - my brother informed me that Hailey's cousin gave her a haircut... cutting off ALL her locks!!! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO....

She was even sporting a few bald patched. Poor Hailey!!

So I was thrilled that I had taken these photos!!!

Love you Hay Hay!!!

GO CARDINALS!!!!!

2009-02-01T12:26:00.001-08:00

Enough said!

Senior Style -DVD

2009-01-30T21:24:00.001-08:00

For all you Seniors... check this out
This is AWESOME:

(You'll need to go below to "my Playlist" text box and turn off the music first)

What an amazing way to celebrate your Senior Year! Impress your family and friends with a unique and one of a kind slideshow.... because there's only one YOU!!

There are so many applications for this slideshow... DVD, facebook, YouTube, Myspace... even your iphone can carry a slideshow on it!

Senior Style DVD's are now available for $100 They plays on any TV or computer
Media Application slideshows for Facebook/Myspace/YouTube - $75

Senior - BFF's

2009-01-28T16:18:00.000-08:00

Best Friends Forever..... These two had their Senior photo Session together!
This gave them a chance to have some photos taken together.. to celebrate their frindship-- and this milestone in their lives!

So you Seniors... keep this in mind when booking a session. You can actually book one with a friend... and get some of those BFF shots!

Thanks Lindsey & Katie!!

Senior Brag Books Available!

2009-01-25T22:20:00.000-08:00

Here's another very cool item for Seniors.... Brag Books. Capture your session in a 5x5 hard or softbound book! You can even get tiny 3x3 softcover albums and give them as gift to relatives.

Just some fun options for you Seniors!

Senior Rep Cards & Announcements

2009-01-22T17:39:00.000-08:00

I have some "goodies" for this Year's Seniors! These are SO cool..... they are
Graduation/Invitation & Rep Cards

Here is just one of the collections I have available to those Seniors that want to make an impression! The custom Announcements are 5x7 double sided Printed Press Cards.

The Rep Cards are the size of a business card... just enough for all the important info! They're unique... fun.... and sure to impress!

Pricing is listed below:

Announcements/Invitations: $50 (Sold in quantities of 25)

Rep Cards: $50 (sold in quantities of 50)

So.... I am now booking Senior Sessions -

AND..... I'm giving away a complimentary set of Rep Cards to the first 5 seniors who book their sessions!!!

So... GO FOR IT!

Senior Maddness!!

2009-01-21T07:22:00.000-08:00

Meet Miss Lindsey.....

I had my first Senior photo shoot of the year with her!

I LOVE High School seniors.... they are SO much fun!!!

This shoot went really well.... Lindsey has AMAZING features and beauty! And... she's just a total sweetheart!

This is one of my favorite shots.......

Lindsey also had a friend Katie with her. We did Katie's Senior photos too... as well as some BFF shots of them together... those will be posted soon!

Thanks so much Lindsey!!!!!

A New Do for 2009

2009-01-18T05:32:00.000-08:00

So I started the year off with a pretty drastic change... for me anyways. I'm pretty much the most boring hair person around. I just don't change it up very often.

Well, I ended up cutting my hair. Not just a 1/4 inch, like usual--- but I had around 8 inches cut off! For me, that' s pretty radical. I've had long hair forever.

My motivation?

My Husband. Blame him. One day he mentioned that he liked me in short hair... so it got me thinking.

Then on my recent trip to California, my niece Krystal-- who is nearly finished with beauty school - mentioned that she could go get her scissors... My whole family egged her on-- and, well-- I now have much shorter hair.

The good news is that I am really happy with it--- Great Job Krystal!!!

More importantly...so is Peter!~ So here you go.. a few photos of the new me:

I Rejoice...

2009-01-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

Today is my precious husband's FINAL DAY of chemotherapy!

I have cried many tears today---happy tears-- for the completion of this part of the journey.

All I can say-- is that God is Faithful! Always!!

I love you Peter!!

(This was the rainbow in the valley on Peter's final day of radiation)

Top 15 Favorites in the Catagory of: Light

2009-01-14T14:44:00.000-08:00

I love this catagory. There is nothing more exciting to me as a photographer than the use of light in an image--- it is all the really matters in photography-- in terms of the bigh picture.

I've learned so much this year about lighting and have njoyed trying new things. I hope you enjoy some of my favorite images captured -- where the light really shines!

2008 Favorites - Children

2009-01-12T09:13:00.000-08:00

I've decided to post some of my favorite images taken last in 2008. As a first year photographer-- it was fun to go back and try to find the photos that grabbed my heart the most.

Of course I left my children out of this catagory--for the obvious bias I would have...

So today I've posted my favorite 15 photos in the catagory of "Children"

By far... children are my favorite subjects to shoot! I hope you enjoy these:

Children's Christmas Play

2009-01-09T07:01:00.000-08:00

For all the parents at Desert Springs Church--- here are some photos of this year's Christmas play.

Miss Angie was our director and she did an amazing job!

Enjoy!

The Thre Kings come for a Visit!

Along with lots of Shepards

To see the baby Jeses....

And Mary with Joseph

And there were many Angels!

Sweet Angels

Vibrant Angels

Beautiful Angels

But I think eveyone's favorite part of the play was when the sheep and the cows and the goats arrived. Oh my - were they SO precious~

It was a wonderful production!! The night was concluded with the 10 commandment boogie!

An Amazing Gift!

2009-01-06T09:36:00.000-08:00

During December, my husband had one of his closest friends come out all the way from Canandaigua, New York-- for a visit. Jaydon Hoffman-- or as we call him, Jaydo!

Jaydo has a beautiful family -- Anne his wife and his four children...Laura, Amy, Brian and Megan.

At the end of his visit--he gave us one of the most amazing gifts we've ever recieved.

This was made with so much love and thoughtfulness... by each of his children.
I was just blown away! Peter even more so... to say the least.

I just HAD to share it with you, it is beautiful.
I think of it as "Portraits of Promise"

Each Child from the Hoffman Family contributed...

Laura:

Amy:

Brian:

Megan

So here Is ONE BIG FAT KISS FOR THE HUFFMAN KIDS---XOXOX
We LOVE this! Thank you so much!

And one last photo--- of Jaydo and Kukas

(I snuck this one in Jaydo) ;-) Love you All!

Pati

First Things First

2009-01-05T08:10:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone!

I wanted to start the year out with a personal update. This is a very big week for the Pakulis Family. My husband will have his FINAL session of chemotherapy this week!! Then he's DONE with chemo!

We are thrilled! He has truly endured much throughout this journey-- and I am so grateful to see this portion of the treatment come to an END.

I have included a photo I took of he and Alissa over the holidays..... I love this one!

We thank you for your continued love and prayers on this journey!
with love - the pakulis family

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T09:23:00.001-08:00

The kids & I are visiting family in California. I hope to have a chance to post some photos during our stay.......

I'm also hoping to get caught up on things -- and start blogging regularly again!!

Wishing You all a WONDERFUL & blessed New Year!

Pati